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After a turbulent time, DCI Ryan’s life is finally beginning to return to normal and he’s looking forward to spending an uneventful Easter bank holiday weekend with his fiancée.
Then, on Good Friday morning he is called out to a crime scene at one of the largest cemeteries in Newcastle. The body of a redheaded woman has been found buried in a shallow grave and the killer has given her wings, like an angel.
Soon, another woman is found at a different cemetery, followed quickly by another. Panic spreads like wildfire as a new serial killer is born, and Ryan’s band of detectives must work around the clock to unmask him before he can strike again.
Murder and mystery are peppered with romance and humour in this fast paced crime whodunnit set amidst the spectacular Northumbrian landscape.
Then, on Good Friday morning he is called out to a crime scene at one of the largest cemeteries in Newcastle. The body of a redheaded woman has been found buried in a shallow grave and the killer has given her wings, like an angel.
Soon, another woman is found at a different cemetery, followed quickly by another. Panic spreads like wildfire as a new serial killer is born, and Ryan’s band of detectives must work around the clock to unmask him before he can strike again.
Murder and mystery are peppered with romance and humour in this fast paced crime whodunnit set amidst the spectacular Northumbrian landscape.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 26, 2016
4175 people are currently reading
2010 people want to read
About the author
L.J. Ross
58 books3,226 followersLJ Ross is an internationally bestselling author, whose books have sold over 7 million copies worldwide.
Her debut, Holy Island, was released in 2015 and became an instant, international bestseller. Since then, a further eighteen of her novels have gone on to take the coveted #1 spot, some even before general release and whilst only available to ‘pre-order’. The Bookseller magazine has reported on Louise having topped the ‘Most Read’ and ‘Most Sold’ fiction charts, and she has garnered an army of loyal fans who love her atmospheric and addictive storytelling.
Her eleventh novel, The Infirmary, is a prequel story to the DCI Ryan series and is available as a major Audible Originals audio-drama starring Tom Bateman, Kevin Whately, Bertie Carvel, Hermione Norris and Alun Armstrong.
The first novel in her Alexander Gregory Thrillers series, Impostor, was shortlisted in the British Book Awards 2020: Crime & Thriller Book of the Year. The audiobook of Impostor, narrated by Hugh Dancy, was also selected as a finalist in the New York Festivals Radio Awards, Best Fiction Audiobook of the Year Category.
In May 2021, Louise was shortlisted for the prestigious Crime Writers’ Association ‘Dagger in the Library’ award, which recognises an author’s entire body of work having been consistently enjoyed by library borrowers around the United Kingdom, and an author’s longstanding support of libraries.
Louise was born in Northumberland, England. She studied undergraduate and postgraduate Law at King’s College, University of London and then abroad in Paris and Florence. She spent much of her working life in London, where she was a lawyer for a number of years until taking the decision to change career and pursue her dream to write. Now, she writes full time and lives with her husband and son in Northumberland and Edinburgh. She enjoys reading all manner of books, painting, travelling and spending time with family and friends.
To find out more about the many philanthropic ventures Louise has founded and sponsored through her publishing imprint, Dark Skies Publishing, please visit ‘Philanthropy’.
If you would like to connect with LJ Ross, she would be very happy to hear from you:
https://www.facebook.com/LJRossAuthor
https://twitter.com/ljross_author
www.lovesuspense.com
lj_ross@outlook.com
Her debut, Holy Island, was released in 2015 and became an instant, international bestseller. Since then, a further eighteen of her novels have gone on to take the coveted #1 spot, some even before general release and whilst only available to ‘pre-order’. The Bookseller magazine has reported on Louise having topped the ‘Most Read’ and ‘Most Sold’ fiction charts, and she has garnered an army of loyal fans who love her atmospheric and addictive storytelling.
Her eleventh novel, The Infirmary, is a prequel story to the DCI Ryan series and is available as a major Audible Originals audio-drama starring Tom Bateman, Kevin Whately, Bertie Carvel, Hermione Norris and Alun Armstrong.
The first novel in her Alexander Gregory Thrillers series, Impostor, was shortlisted in the British Book Awards 2020: Crime & Thriller Book of the Year. The audiobook of Impostor, narrated by Hugh Dancy, was also selected as a finalist in the New York Festivals Radio Awards, Best Fiction Audiobook of the Year Category.
In May 2021, Louise was shortlisted for the prestigious Crime Writers’ Association ‘Dagger in the Library’ award, which recognises an author’s entire body of work having been consistently enjoyed by library borrowers around the United Kingdom, and an author’s longstanding support of libraries.
Louise was born in Northumberland, England. She studied undergraduate and postgraduate Law at King’s College, University of London and then abroad in Paris and Florence. She spent much of her working life in London, where she was a lawyer for a number of years until taking the decision to change career and pursue her dream to write. Now, she writes full time and lives with her husband and son in Northumberland and Edinburgh. She enjoys reading all manner of books, painting, travelling and spending time with family and friends.
To find out more about the many philanthropic ventures Louise has founded and sponsored through her publishing imprint, Dark Skies Publishing, please visit ‘Philanthropy’.
If you would like to connect with LJ Ross, she would be very happy to hear from you:
https://www.facebook.com/LJRossAuthor
https://twitter.com/ljross_author
www.lovesuspense.com
lj_ross@outlook.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 641 reviews
November 4, 2016
3.5★
I’ve enjoyed DCI Ryan in the past three series, where he (with help, of course) uncovered a creepy religious cult with some surprising killers. I like the fact that Ross spares us the worst of the gory details, although some of the murders are pretty ghastly.
This story has some of the same characters, and if you’ve read the previous books, their back stories will make this more interesting. If you don’t know the characters, I think this is fine as a stand-alone mystery. We see almost nothing of Anna, Ryan’s previous love interest whom he met in #1 and who was heavily involved in the first three cases.
Angel: Bodies of redheaded women are found—in graveyards, of all places—with their arms and clothing arranged to look like angels. Detective Inspector Denise MacKenzie is a luscious redhead and one of my favourite characters, as well as the love-of-his-life of Detective Sergeant Frank Phillips.
The story moves along with enough twists to keep you reading. Ross often tips her hand as to the killer, but she makes the police work to find him or her and prove it and keeps us puzzled as to how they'll do it.
There’s not a lot of back story for various characters, and when there is, it’s sometimes a red herring for someone who never really shows up again. But you won’t know that, of course, will you?
I’m still fond of comfortably-built DS Frank Phillips. He’s involved in an operation where they need more padding than he already has. Ross allows herself some humour.
“. . . police operatives began their approach, kitted out in protective bodywear. Not for the first time, Phillips mourned the fact that the bulky gear did little to improve his stocky physique. He felt less like an action hero and considerably more like a hobbit who had enjoyed a long and calorific lunch. To add insult to injury, Ryan stood tall and lean beside him, adjusting the straps on his stab vest like he was James Bond’s better looking brother.
The injustice of it all.”
Poor old Frank.
Some of Ross’s writing I quite enjoy.
“Icy winds blasted through the streets and ushered the river towards the sea in surging waves that crashed against either side of the riverbank. As the water swelled and shifted, [X’s] body moved with it, dragging and battering against the mossy stone walls. Her long skirt became entangled in some rubbish which had collected underneath the high level railway bridge, where a man and his dog had the misfortune of finding her.”
Some of her descriptions seem unnecessarily overwritten, (or whatever it’s called), the kind of thing that would stop me from continuing a book. There may have been the same instances in the earlier books, but perhaps the stories held my attention enough that I didn’t notice. The killer, in the opening pages:
“Tears clogged his throat and began to fall down the man’s face. The pain was still fresh. It followed him as a constant, unrelenting ache that festered and fed off his flesh like carrion. His angel. All these years later, she still walked beside him.”
And later:
“The headache had returned. Even when he closed his eyes, the pain remained strong. He clutched at his head, tugging at the hair above his ears and slamming the heel of his hands against his own skull to relieve the terrible, crushing pressure, moaning like a wounded animal. Despite everything, the police were getting closer.”
This was much more a police story than a character-driven story, and the new cliff-hanger at the end wasn’t needed to entice us to read #5 when it comes out. I think we know we’ll see more of the long, lanky, handsome DI and his mates. We didn’t need the nudge!
I’m sure L.J. Ross has an enormous following by now!
Note: I read an advanced reader's copy from which I've quoted, so quotes may have changed.
I’ve enjoyed DCI Ryan in the past three series, where he (with help, of course) uncovered a creepy religious cult with some surprising killers. I like the fact that Ross spares us the worst of the gory details, although some of the murders are pretty ghastly.
This story has some of the same characters, and if you’ve read the previous books, their back stories will make this more interesting. If you don’t know the characters, I think this is fine as a stand-alone mystery. We see almost nothing of Anna, Ryan’s previous love interest whom he met in #1 and who was heavily involved in the first three cases.
Angel: Bodies of redheaded women are found—in graveyards, of all places—with their arms and clothing arranged to look like angels. Detective Inspector Denise MacKenzie is a luscious redhead and one of my favourite characters, as well as the love-of-his-life of Detective Sergeant Frank Phillips.
The story moves along with enough twists to keep you reading. Ross often tips her hand as to the killer, but she makes the police work to find him or her and prove it and keeps us puzzled as to how they'll do it.
There’s not a lot of back story for various characters, and when there is, it’s sometimes a red herring for someone who never really shows up again. But you won’t know that, of course, will you?
I’m still fond of comfortably-built DS Frank Phillips. He’s involved in an operation where they need more padding than he already has. Ross allows herself some humour.
“. . . police operatives began their approach, kitted out in protective bodywear. Not for the first time, Phillips mourned the fact that the bulky gear did little to improve his stocky physique. He felt less like an action hero and considerably more like a hobbit who had enjoyed a long and calorific lunch. To add insult to injury, Ryan stood tall and lean beside him, adjusting the straps on his stab vest like he was James Bond’s better looking brother.
The injustice of it all.”
Poor old Frank.
Some of Ross’s writing I quite enjoy.
“Icy winds blasted through the streets and ushered the river towards the sea in surging waves that crashed against either side of the riverbank. As the water swelled and shifted, [X’s] body moved with it, dragging and battering against the mossy stone walls. Her long skirt became entangled in some rubbish which had collected underneath the high level railway bridge, where a man and his dog had the misfortune of finding her.”
Some of her descriptions seem unnecessarily overwritten, (or whatever it’s called), the kind of thing that would stop me from continuing a book. There may have been the same instances in the earlier books, but perhaps the stories held my attention enough that I didn’t notice. The killer, in the opening pages:
“Tears clogged his throat and began to fall down the man’s face. The pain was still fresh. It followed him as a constant, unrelenting ache that festered and fed off his flesh like carrion. His angel. All these years later, she still walked beside him.”
And later:
“The headache had returned. Even when he closed his eyes, the pain remained strong. He clutched at his head, tugging at the hair above his ears and slamming the heel of his hands against his own skull to relieve the terrible, crushing pressure, moaning like a wounded animal. Despite everything, the police were getting closer.”
This was much more a police story than a character-driven story, and the new cliff-hanger at the end wasn’t needed to entice us to read #5 when it comes out. I think we know we’ll see more of the long, lanky, handsome DI and his mates. We didn’t need the nudge!
I’m sure L.J. Ross has an enormous following by now!
Note: I read an advanced reader's copy from which I've quoted, so quotes may have changed.
October 15, 2018
Woo hoo! Absolutely fantastic reading!
I have loved the entire DCI Ryan series but really feel that talented author LJ Ross has upped her game with Angel, for me this is her best work by far, and considering the other books are brilliant, that says a lot. This really launches Ross into the list of front runners when it comes to Brit-Crime talented authors. Right up there. I really felt that Angel has stepped into competition with solid crime fiction success stories already published and LJ Ross is an author with one hell of a bright future.
It helps somewhat to read the series in order, to get the depth of back story and to build up the picture of DCI Ryan himself. He is now officially my favourite male Detective out of any of the crime book series that I read and love. He is worth getting to know. In saying that, the author cleverly gives you bits and pieces of previous cases and events, enough that if you read this as a stand alone you would not feel lost in anyway and enjoy the book immensely.
DCI Ryan is on the hunt for a serial killer, a killer of redheaded women and the book ties in links with the Catholic Church and it's faith quite strongly. For fans of the series, this novel takes on a new direction from those gone before and I was so excited to be part of a new hunt that DCI Ryan had in his very capable hands. It's really well written, easy to get lost in and pure reading entertainment. I was engaged fully from start to finish.
The book is again set in the fabulous North-East of England, around the city of Newcastle Upon Tyne which just happens to be where I was born and raised. I was thrilled the book ventured into Durham region also which is where I currently live and it was a little strange to have the cemetery where my grandparents are buried featured in the novel, but LJ Ross has captured the essence of the region really well (again!). There is indeed a very real Angel of the North featured high up on a hill at Gateshead.
I found the plot really interesting, especially the brilliant edge-of-your-seat one at the end of the book! Be warned dear fans and new readers, you are really, really going to want to read the next book after this one, personally I wish it was already out! I need to know! Totally brilliant ending and kudos to LJ Ross for it. I find her writing just gets better and better and that excites me so much.
I love the characters in this book, they really do become the type of characters you grow to "know" and love throughout this great series. DCI Ryan is just the bomb! He is portrayed as sexy, good looking, capable, intelligent, fearless and proud - I mean let's face it ladies, we all need a DCI Ryan in our lives right? Or is he all mine? Fine with me. His character yet again steps up to another level and I will eat my hat if this is not one day turned into a quality British TV Crime Series, it's worthy of it.
There was nothing I did not like, everything works in this fantastic novel and I am predicting it will be an absolute hit with both current fans and new readers. If you have not yet read any of LJ's books then now is a great time to start! Just brilliant, gush gush. This one has made it to my Long List for my Top Ten Reads of 2016 and onto my personal favourites shelf. I will be ensuring I get the paperback copy of this one to add to my proud collection on my bookshelves at home.
5 HUGE stars - don't miss it, get it on your to-read list and be ready for the next great read from the incredibly more talented pen of LJ Ross.
I feel blessed and privileged to have received an ARC of this novel from LJ Ross to read and review, my many thanks.
Thanks for reading my review! For more of my book reviews, plenty of awesome books to win, author interviews and features come over to join me for book fun at: https://www.facebook.com/BookloverCat...
To follow me on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/promotethatbook
To enquire about joining my reviewers team: http://goo.gl/forms/GWMOvlofZg
Finally to enquire about my book publicity services: http://goo.gl/forms/eVwa2HFKnK
I have loved the entire DCI Ryan series but really feel that talented author LJ Ross has upped her game with Angel, for me this is her best work by far, and considering the other books are brilliant, that says a lot. This really launches Ross into the list of front runners when it comes to Brit-Crime talented authors. Right up there. I really felt that Angel has stepped into competition with solid crime fiction success stories already published and LJ Ross is an author with one hell of a bright future.
It helps somewhat to read the series in order, to get the depth of back story and to build up the picture of DCI Ryan himself. He is now officially my favourite male Detective out of any of the crime book series that I read and love. He is worth getting to know. In saying that, the author cleverly gives you bits and pieces of previous cases and events, enough that if you read this as a stand alone you would not feel lost in anyway and enjoy the book immensely.
DCI Ryan is on the hunt for a serial killer, a killer of redheaded women and the book ties in links with the Catholic Church and it's faith quite strongly. For fans of the series, this novel takes on a new direction from those gone before and I was so excited to be part of a new hunt that DCI Ryan had in his very capable hands. It's really well written, easy to get lost in and pure reading entertainment. I was engaged fully from start to finish.
The book is again set in the fabulous North-East of England, around the city of Newcastle Upon Tyne which just happens to be where I was born and raised. I was thrilled the book ventured into Durham region also which is where I currently live and it was a little strange to have the cemetery where my grandparents are buried featured in the novel, but LJ Ross has captured the essence of the region really well (again!). There is indeed a very real Angel of the North featured high up on a hill at Gateshead.
I found the plot really interesting, especially the brilliant edge-of-your-seat one at the end of the book! Be warned dear fans and new readers, you are really, really going to want to read the next book after this one, personally I wish it was already out! I need to know! Totally brilliant ending and kudos to LJ Ross for it. I find her writing just gets better and better and that excites me so much.
I love the characters in this book, they really do become the type of characters you grow to "know" and love throughout this great series. DCI Ryan is just the bomb! He is portrayed as sexy, good looking, capable, intelligent, fearless and proud - I mean let's face it ladies, we all need a DCI Ryan in our lives right? Or is he all mine? Fine with me. His character yet again steps up to another level and I will eat my hat if this is not one day turned into a quality British TV Crime Series, it's worthy of it.
There was nothing I did not like, everything works in this fantastic novel and I am predicting it will be an absolute hit with both current fans and new readers. If you have not yet read any of LJ's books then now is a great time to start! Just brilliant, gush gush. This one has made it to my Long List for my Top Ten Reads of 2016 and onto my personal favourites shelf. I will be ensuring I get the paperback copy of this one to add to my proud collection on my bookshelves at home.
5 HUGE stars - don't miss it, get it on your to-read list and be ready for the next great read from the incredibly more talented pen of LJ Ross.
I feel blessed and privileged to have received an ARC of this novel from LJ Ross to read and review, my many thanks.
Thanks for reading my review! For more of my book reviews, plenty of awesome books to win, author interviews and features come over to join me for book fun at: https://www.facebook.com/BookloverCat...
To follow me on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/promotethatbook
To enquire about joining my reviewers team: http://goo.gl/forms/GWMOvlofZg
Finally to enquire about my book publicity services: http://goo.gl/forms/eVwa2HFKnK
April 26, 2019
5 Words: Crime, conviction, religion, passion, murder.
I have to say, this series get better and better with each book, which is one hell of an accomplishment since the first one was so amazing.
These are the type of books that you pick up and do not put down, they are a fast paced read packed with twists and turns.
I can't get over how thrilling these books are to read. When it comes to WHODUNNIT I am often surprised by who it is - I never guess it first time. I love how the whole mystery is unraveled, how the motives are revealed, how nothing is straight-forward.
I absolutely love everything about DCI Ryan - he is an incredibly complex character and just when you think you know him something else is revealed that changes your perception. This book seemed to shift the focus a little more towards Henderson (and understandably so) and it was nice to get more of a glimpse into this kick-ass woman's character.
I received a copy of this for free for review purposes.
But I have it pre-ordered anyway.
I have to say, this series get better and better with each book, which is one hell of an accomplishment since the first one was so amazing.
These are the type of books that you pick up and do not put down, they are a fast paced read packed with twists and turns.
I can't get over how thrilling these books are to read. When it comes to WHODUNNIT I am often surprised by who it is - I never guess it first time. I love how the whole mystery is unraveled, how the motives are revealed, how nothing is straight-forward.
I absolutely love everything about DCI Ryan - he is an incredibly complex character and just when you think you know him something else is revealed that changes your perception. This book seemed to shift the focus a little more towards Henderson (and understandably so) and it was nice to get more of a glimpse into this kick-ass woman's character.
I received a copy of this for free for review purposes.
But I have it pre-ordered anyway.
December 19, 2016
Spent 7.5 hours in the car listening to this. Would have happily driven another 7.5 hrs if I could have listened to the next one. This series is getting better with each book. I'm hoping L.J. Ross can write quickly, so I don't have to wait too long for the next one. Ends with a cliffhanger, but I was ok with that in this case. If you're new to this series, start with Holy Island. Exceptional British crime fiction. Spending a day in the car listening to Johnathan Keeble narrate this was pure bliss. I might have to plan another trip on my own to coincide with the release of the next audiobook!
November 17, 2018
6 stars
Didn't think this series could get any better, but somehow she has managed to top the first 3 books.
The pace of this story is incredible it starts at a fast pace and gets quicker and quicker. Just when you think the case is solved and it is winding down, it carries on to an incredible climax.
I had planned to move on to another series, and come back to book 5 later. But with that ending, there is no way I can wait. Thank god I haven't got to wait for the next book to be published.
Didn't think this series could get any better, but somehow she has managed to top the first 3 books.
The pace of this story is incredible it starts at a fast pace and gets quicker and quicker. Just when you think the case is solved and it is winding down, it carries on to an incredible climax.
I had planned to move on to another series, and come back to book 5 later. But with that ending, there is no way I can wait. Thank god I haven't got to wait for the next book to be published.
January 27, 2025
**Read 4.5 STARS!**
This very engaging crime mystery is the 4th volume of the delightful "DCI Ryan" series.
At the beginning of the book you'll find a phrase by Vladimir Nabokov, and that phrase will be the heart of the matter in this crime mystery.
The historical background in this story are the sculpture of "The Angel of the North" and Newcastle-upon-Tyne with its monumental Cathedral, churches and cemeteries, and they all will play a very important part in this tale about faith, vengeance and murder.
The book opens with a prologue set in 1990 with the death of a young girl, but the main story is set around Easter time in March 2016, and then the first murder will occur of a red headed woman.
This murder is quickly followed by two more red headed women being killed and buried like an angel, and so for DCI Ryan and his team of officers the task to track down and find this killer, and make the connection between these killings and happenings from the past, while DI Denise MacKenzie is receiving unwanted attention and threats from someone very dangerous as it turns out, and so precautions are made for her welfare, but will they be enough, who knows.
What is to follow is an action-packed and fast-paced crime mystery, a mystery will a great storyline, accompanied with a superbly constructed plot, to make this book such an engrossing read from start and finish.
Highly recommended, for this is another excellent addition to this ever improving series, and that's why I like to call this latest episode: "A Thrilling Avenging Angel"!
This very engaging crime mystery is the 4th volume of the delightful "DCI Ryan" series.
At the beginning of the book you'll find a phrase by Vladimir Nabokov, and that phrase will be the heart of the matter in this crime mystery.
The historical background in this story are the sculpture of "The Angel of the North" and Newcastle-upon-Tyne with its monumental Cathedral, churches and cemeteries, and they all will play a very important part in this tale about faith, vengeance and murder.
The book opens with a prologue set in 1990 with the death of a young girl, but the main story is set around Easter time in March 2016, and then the first murder will occur of a red headed woman.
This murder is quickly followed by two more red headed women being killed and buried like an angel, and so for DCI Ryan and his team of officers the task to track down and find this killer, and make the connection between these killings and happenings from the past, while DI Denise MacKenzie is receiving unwanted attention and threats from someone very dangerous as it turns out, and so precautions are made for her welfare, but will they be enough, who knows.
What is to follow is an action-packed and fast-paced crime mystery, a mystery will a great storyline, accompanied with a superbly constructed plot, to make this book such an engrossing read from start and finish.
Highly recommended, for this is another excellent addition to this ever improving series, and that's why I like to call this latest episode: "A Thrilling Avenging Angel"!
September 25, 2016
Just when things are quiet and more or less peaceful, DCI Ryan and his team are called in to investigate the death of a woman found buried in a shallow grave in one of the local cemeteries.
Ryan is the first to notice the resemblance to one of his team, DC McKenzie - roughly the same age, and the unmistakable long red hair. She is arranged to look like an angel. Shortly after, another redheaded woman is found at a different cemetery. Things escalate when a third redhead is found.
A serial killer is born - one with ties to the Catholic Church?
At the same time, McKenzie and her partner are called to the scene of a possible suicide of an elderly woman. She also has ties to the Catholic Church.
Are the two cases related?
Although I highly recommend that you read this series starting with the first book, this one does fine as a stand alone.
WARNING: Although most of the murder mystery comes to an acceptable end, there is a small cliffhanger. I have read the entire series and will continue to do so, cliffhanger or not.
The characters are what keep me coming back. In ANGEL, the reader finds more of a personal nature, with Ryan engaged and looking forward to being married, as long as he doesn't have to deal with any of the details .. like flowers, and catering, etc. McKenzie is drawn into personal danger with her resemblance to the victims. And she has to deal with Phillips who would take a bullet for the lady.
I have found this series to be well-written, each book better than the last.
Many thanks to the author and Booklover Catlady Publicity who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Ryan is the first to notice the resemblance to one of his team, DC McKenzie - roughly the same age, and the unmistakable long red hair. She is arranged to look like an angel. Shortly after, another redheaded woman is found at a different cemetery. Things escalate when a third redhead is found.
A serial killer is born - one with ties to the Catholic Church?
At the same time, McKenzie and her partner are called to the scene of a possible suicide of an elderly woman. She also has ties to the Catholic Church.
Are the two cases related?
Although I highly recommend that you read this series starting with the first book, this one does fine as a stand alone.
WARNING: Although most of the murder mystery comes to an acceptable end, there is a small cliffhanger. I have read the entire series and will continue to do so, cliffhanger or not.
The characters are what keep me coming back. In ANGEL, the reader finds more of a personal nature, with Ryan engaged and looking forward to being married, as long as he doesn't have to deal with any of the details .. like flowers, and catering, etc. McKenzie is drawn into personal danger with her resemblance to the victims. And she has to deal with Phillips who would take a bullet for the lady.
I have found this series to be well-written, each book better than the last.
Many thanks to the author and Booklover Catlady Publicity who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
June 27, 2023
Džiaugiuosi grįžusi prie inspektoriaus Rajeno serijos. Lengvi, greito siužeto detektyvai, kuriuos jungia smagi tyrėjų komanda ir lyg seriale besitęsiantys įvykiai.
Užbaigęs reikalus su Ratu, Rajenas aiškinasi, kas kaltas dėl masinių raudonplaukių moterų nužudymų. Įtampa kyla - jo komandoje dirbanti kolegė, puikiai atitinka aukų profilį..
Šį kartą kiek nuvylė tai, kad autorė, kaip jai įprasta, nepasirinko istorinės vietos ir mistiškesnės aplinkos. Pirmose dalyse, būtent tai, serijai suteikė išskirtinumo. Šį kartą, tiek pats tyrimas, tiek jo detalės, mažai kuo skyrėsi nuo kitų detektyvų.
Padėtį puikiai pataisė pabaiga - Ross užmetė puikų kabliuką, dėl kurios, sekančią dalį, norisi imti iš kart.
Užbaigęs reikalus su Ratu, Rajenas aiškinasi, kas kaltas dėl masinių raudonplaukių moterų nužudymų. Įtampa kyla - jo komandoje dirbanti kolegė, puikiai atitinka aukų profilį..
Šį kartą kiek nuvylė tai, kad autorė, kaip jai įprasta, nepasirinko istorinės vietos ir mistiškesnės aplinkos. Pirmose dalyse, būtent tai, serijai suteikė išskirtinumo. Šį kartą, tiek pats tyrimas, tiek jo detalės, mažai kuo skyrėsi nuo kitų detektyvų.
Padėtį puikiai pataisė pabaiga - Ross užmetė puikų kabliuką, dėl kurios, sekančią dalį, norisi imti iš kart.
August 17, 2016
I'm pretty certain that the DCI Ryan series is improving with the release of each book and that’s evident with Angel as it’s the best in the series so far in my opinion.
I feel sorry for poor Ryan, he always draws the crazy people and this book is no different. This time we have a killer who believes he is essentially a messenger of God and killing in His name. Posing them in the position of an angel, the symbolism is not lost on the team of investigators.
Angels have long been a symbol in religion, and though this book has religious references and connotations, it is done in a sympathetic way and stays true to the story. Though Angel has its roots in religion, the book stays with the characters and their various investigations which means it’s not something the reader has to focus on.
I absolutely adore Louise’s writing style, and it’s getting better and more assured with each book. Angel is gory, gruesome but packed to the rafters with action and mystery. The familiar cast of characters are all there, but I’m pretty sure Ryan is still my favourite!
I won’t give anything away about the story, but it is brilliant! Heart-pounding cat and mouse games are prevalent in Angel and I’m pretty certain that I held my breath more than once as I raced toward the conclusion! Which, if I’m honest, I WAS NOT EXPECTING!!!!!*
*This is code for please get the next DCI Ryan book out as fast as possible please and thank you!* (You’ll understand when you read it!)
I love this series, I love the characters and I really love how invested I become in the fates of the fictional characters. Angel is most definitely the best book in the series so far, and they are all superb, but Angel is exceptional!
All the stars for this one! Highly recommended!
I feel sorry for poor Ryan, he always draws the crazy people and this book is no different. This time we have a killer who believes he is essentially a messenger of God and killing in His name. Posing them in the position of an angel, the symbolism is not lost on the team of investigators.
Angels have long been a symbol in religion, and though this book has religious references and connotations, it is done in a sympathetic way and stays true to the story. Though Angel has its roots in religion, the book stays with the characters and their various investigations which means it’s not something the reader has to focus on.
I absolutely adore Louise’s writing style, and it’s getting better and more assured with each book. Angel is gory, gruesome but packed to the rafters with action and mystery. The familiar cast of characters are all there, but I’m pretty sure Ryan is still my favourite!
I won’t give anything away about the story, but it is brilliant! Heart-pounding cat and mouse games are prevalent in Angel and I’m pretty certain that I held my breath more than once as I raced toward the conclusion! Which, if I’m honest, I WAS NOT EXPECTING!!!!!*
*This is code for please get the next DCI Ryan book out as fast as possible please and thank you!* (You’ll understand when you read it!)
I love this series, I love the characters and I really love how invested I become in the fates of the fictional characters. Angel is most definitely the best book in the series so far, and they are all superb, but Angel is exceptional!
All the stars for this one! Highly recommended!
January 26, 2018
OH. MY. GOODNESS!
What a way to end a book! Obviously, High Force (book 5) was downloaded immediately!
I'm kind of glad I came to this series a little late as I don't have to wait for the next book to be written, although that is often part of the fun when you find a series/author you love. I have been a huge fan of LJ Ross since I read Holy Island (The DCI Ryan Mystery Series, book1) and I know I said this in my previous review, but this series really is getting better and better.
It's Easter weekend and instead of a peaceful holiday DCI Ryan and his team find themselves with a new serial killer on their hands. A woman is found in a shallow grave, in a cemetery. She has been placed in the shape of an Angel and it isn't long before a second victim is found in another cemetery. As always, Ryan and his team put the hours in and race against the clock to find this murderer before anyone else loses their life. In the meantime, all natural red headed women are advised to be vigilant, including one of their own team, as this killer certainly has a type.
This is another fast-paced, tense read with everything you could want in a murder mystery. Plot driven, but with excellent characterisation. Real people with real relationships. Strong friendships, loyalty, humour and also romance. I love how Ryan's and Anna's relationship is developing, as well as romances between other team members. I was totally gripped from the first page to the last and I can't wait to start High Force.
I do believe these books would be fine to read as standalones, but I highly recommend you read them in order because there are regular characters that we get to know that little bit better with each book and there are also references to previous cases. Plus, lets face it, it's an awesome series, set in a beautiful part of our country, so why would you not want to read them all!?
https://chataboutbooks.wordpress.com/...
What a way to end a book! Obviously, High Force (book 5) was downloaded immediately!
I'm kind of glad I came to this series a little late as I don't have to wait for the next book to be written, although that is often part of the fun when you find a series/author you love. I have been a huge fan of LJ Ross since I read Holy Island (The DCI Ryan Mystery Series, book1) and I know I said this in my previous review, but this series really is getting better and better.
It's Easter weekend and instead of a peaceful holiday DCI Ryan and his team find themselves with a new serial killer on their hands. A woman is found in a shallow grave, in a cemetery. She has been placed in the shape of an Angel and it isn't long before a second victim is found in another cemetery. As always, Ryan and his team put the hours in and race against the clock to find this murderer before anyone else loses their life. In the meantime, all natural red headed women are advised to be vigilant, including one of their own team, as this killer certainly has a type.
This is another fast-paced, tense read with everything you could want in a murder mystery. Plot driven, but with excellent characterisation. Real people with real relationships. Strong friendships, loyalty, humour and also romance. I love how Ryan's and Anna's relationship is developing, as well as romances between other team members. I was totally gripped from the first page to the last and I can't wait to start High Force.
I do believe these books would be fine to read as standalones, but I highly recommend you read them in order because there are regular characters that we get to know that little bit better with each book and there are also references to previous cases. Plus, lets face it, it's an awesome series, set in a beautiful part of our country, so why would you not want to read them all!?
https://chataboutbooks.wordpress.com/...
December 2, 2020
Dar pernai perskaičiau pirmąją serijos knygą, kurioje susipažinau su inspektoriumi Rajenu. Ši serija tikrai labai nebloga. Ir štai perskaityta jau ir ketvirtoji knyga 😎
Šioje dalyje Rajeno gyvenimas po truputį grįžta į įprastas vėžes. Bent taip pradeda atrodyti..
Artėja ilgasis savaitgalis ir detektyvas nesitiki nieko kito, kaip tik jį praleisti kartu su savo sužadėtine. Deja, bet blogiukai nepaiso šventinių dienų bei savaitgalių..
Rajenas yra iškviečiamas į nusikaltimo vietą, kuri kaip paaiškėja yra gana neįprasta. Tai Niukaslo kapinės. Čia randama negiliame kape užkasta moteris raudonais plaukais.. Jai žudikas tarsi suteikė angelo sparnus bei šalia paliko raštelį.
Neilgai trukus randama dar viena auka.. Mieste plinta panika ir panašu, jog dvigubai labiau turėtų saugotis būtent raudonų plaukų savininkės..
Jau prieš paimdama į rankas šią knygą žinojau, jog manęs laukia puikus laikas. Taip buvo ir šį kartą. Puikiai pažįstami veikėjai iš ankstesnių knygų, tad romanas skaitėsi greitai bei nesudėtingai.
Istorija skaitėsi tikrai greitai, o intriga bei paslaptys vijo vieną kitą.
Tikiu, jog kūrinio atomazga gali pasirodyti truputį netikėta. Aš skaitydama truputį nujaučiau link ko viskas krypsta, bet kitų detalių net nenumaniau net ir aš 🙈
Jau nekantrauju, kuomet į rankas paimsiu kitą serijos dalį. Žinau, jog ir vėl puikus laikas su knyga bus garantuotas.
Šioje dalyje Rajeno gyvenimas po truputį grįžta į įprastas vėžes. Bent taip pradeda atrodyti..
Artėja ilgasis savaitgalis ir detektyvas nesitiki nieko kito, kaip tik jį praleisti kartu su savo sužadėtine. Deja, bet blogiukai nepaiso šventinių dienų bei savaitgalių..
Rajenas yra iškviečiamas į nusikaltimo vietą, kuri kaip paaiškėja yra gana neįprasta. Tai Niukaslo kapinės. Čia randama negiliame kape užkasta moteris raudonais plaukais.. Jai žudikas tarsi suteikė angelo sparnus bei šalia paliko raštelį.
Neilgai trukus randama dar viena auka.. Mieste plinta panika ir panašu, jog dvigubai labiau turėtų saugotis būtent raudonų plaukų savininkės..
Jau prieš paimdama į rankas šią knygą žinojau, jog manęs laukia puikus laikas. Taip buvo ir šį kartą. Puikiai pažįstami veikėjai iš ankstesnių knygų, tad romanas skaitėsi greitai bei nesudėtingai.
Istorija skaitėsi tikrai greitai, o intriga bei paslaptys vijo vieną kitą.
Tikiu, jog kūrinio atomazga gali pasirodyti truputį netikėta. Aš skaitydama truputį nujaučiau link ko viskas krypsta, bet kitų detalių net nenumaniau net ir aš 🙈
Jau nekantrauju, kuomet į rankas paimsiu kitą serijos dalį. Žinau, jog ir vėl puikus laikas su knyga bus garantuotas.
March 20, 2023
Wow kaip man patiko šita dalis. Gerai, kad su ja dalyvavau #skaitymomaratonas iššūkyje, tai buvo proga pasiteisinti dėl ko aš visa pasinėrusi į knygą buvau.🤭 O buvo tikrai gerai, kaip visada daug veiksmo, komandinio darbo, tradicinių pasišmaikštavimų tarp kolegų, tik šįkart meilės linijos gal buvo čiut mažiau.
Detektyvo Rajeno gyvenimas atrodo pamažu rimsta, grįžta į įprastas vėžes. Vyras su mylimąja ramiai laukia ateinančio Velykų savaitgalio. Tik ar Jus nustebins jei pasakysiu, kad tas jo ramus laukimas virsta į kvapą gniaužiančią žudiko medžioklę?
Vienose, paskui kitose kapinėse randami raudonplaukių nužudytų moterų kūnai, negiliai užkasti ir su suteiktais angelo sparnais. Negi ir vėl Rajenas turi reikalų su kažkokiu religijos fanatiku, įsivaizduojančiu, kad yra Dievas?
Kaip jau sakiau veiksmo buvo daug, įvykiai greitai keitė vienas kitą, o kur dar paslaptys, kurios pamažu vėrėsi kaip iš atverstos skrynios ir kaip visada viskas buvo pagardinta žiupsneliu meilės ir humoro.
Neabejotinai sekanti dalis neilgai gulės lentynoje.
Detektyvo Rajeno gyvenimas atrodo pamažu rimsta, grįžta į įprastas vėžes. Vyras su mylimąja ramiai laukia ateinančio Velykų savaitgalio. Tik ar Jus nustebins jei pasakysiu, kad tas jo ramus laukimas virsta į kvapą gniaužiančią žudiko medžioklę?
Vienose, paskui kitose kapinėse randami raudonplaukių nužudytų moterų kūnai, negiliai užkasti ir su suteiktais angelo sparnais. Negi ir vėl Rajenas turi reikalų su kažkokiu religijos fanatiku, įsivaizduojančiu, kad yra Dievas?
Kaip jau sakiau veiksmo buvo daug, įvykiai greitai keitė vienas kitą, o kur dar paslaptys, kurios pamažu vėrėsi kaip iš atverstos skrynios ir kaip visada viskas buvo pagardinta žiupsneliu meilės ir humoro.
Neabejotinai sekanti dalis neilgai gulės lentynoje.
August 22, 2016
WOW! WOW! WOW! I thought it was impossible for this author to write a book which is better than the first three brilliant books in her DCI Ryan series. But hey! She. Has. Done. It!! 'Angel' is just FANTASTIC!! I absolutely LOVED it, and yes even more than the others, and THAT is saying something!
The story starts in 1990 with a girl falling to her death while trying to escape from somewhere. Who was this girl? From where was she trying to escape? At this point we don't know, but this girl will have a lot to do with how the story progresses.
"He had been chosen. This work and the salvation he could bring was the reason he had been born."
Then we're at the present. Easter time. A serial killer is on a mission, performing God's work (as far as he's concerned), killing redheaded women and dumping their bodies in local cemeteries, arranging their bodies as if they were angels in flight. DCI Ryan and DS Phillips rush to the first scene to start their investigation. Will Ryan's ability to step into the mind of the killer help him stop this psycho? How many women will have to die before he and his team can work out his identity? Why is this killer targeting redheads? And why is he dumping them in cemeteries?
With difference to the first three books in the series, which I suggest to be read in order, this book can be read as a standalone. There are a few references to what happened in the other books, but nothing that can't be worked out by the reader.
This book is superbly penned with a brilliantly weaved, fast-paced, suspenseful plot that kept me on my toes with my interest high at all times. I loved the religious element entwined in the plot. The author's vivid descriptions bring everything to life and even though I've never visited the places described I could imagine them with absolute clarity. I felt as if I was there, a passive character watching what was happening, but I didn't want to be there in the dark, wet streets or in the spooky cemeteries in close proximity to this vicious killer. It was simply too terrifying. The murder scenes are so realistically written, they honestly made me hold my breath and clutch at my throat.
This is definitely much better than watching a chilling thriller on TV!
DCI Ryan and his team are absolutely one of the best fictional police teams I had the pleasure to read about. They are not just names written within the text, but realistic, living humans with flesh, blood and feelings that interact with each other and reach out to the reader.
And the heart-pumping drama never stops, and when I say never, it's NEVER! Something absolutely dreadful happens at the end of this book. OMG no!!!! Oops!! I'm saying nothing more, sorry! Hey Ms Ross you're a real tease, just saying! And as far as tension is concerned you don't spare a page, do you? Now I can't wait for book 5 to come out.
Angel is without doubt one of the best books I've read this year and hence it goes straight up to my top reads for 2016. Obviously I highly recommend, not only this book but the whole series.
With thanks to the author for an ARC of this fab book.
The story starts in 1990 with a girl falling to her death while trying to escape from somewhere. Who was this girl? From where was she trying to escape? At this point we don't know, but this girl will have a lot to do with how the story progresses.
"He had been chosen. This work and the salvation he could bring was the reason he had been born."
Then we're at the present. Easter time. A serial killer is on a mission, performing God's work (as far as he's concerned), killing redheaded women and dumping their bodies in local cemeteries, arranging their bodies as if they were angels in flight. DCI Ryan and DS Phillips rush to the first scene to start their investigation. Will Ryan's ability to step into the mind of the killer help him stop this psycho? How many women will have to die before he and his team can work out his identity? Why is this killer targeting redheads? And why is he dumping them in cemeteries?
With difference to the first three books in the series, which I suggest to be read in order, this book can be read as a standalone. There are a few references to what happened in the other books, but nothing that can't be worked out by the reader.
This book is superbly penned with a brilliantly weaved, fast-paced, suspenseful plot that kept me on my toes with my interest high at all times. I loved the religious element entwined in the plot. The author's vivid descriptions bring everything to life and even though I've never visited the places described I could imagine them with absolute clarity. I felt as if I was there, a passive character watching what was happening, but I didn't want to be there in the dark, wet streets or in the spooky cemeteries in close proximity to this vicious killer. It was simply too terrifying. The murder scenes are so realistically written, they honestly made me hold my breath and clutch at my throat.
This is definitely much better than watching a chilling thriller on TV!
DCI Ryan and his team are absolutely one of the best fictional police teams I had the pleasure to read about. They are not just names written within the text, but realistic, living humans with flesh, blood and feelings that interact with each other and reach out to the reader.
And the heart-pumping drama never stops, and when I say never, it's NEVER! Something absolutely dreadful happens at the end of this book. OMG no!!!! Oops!! I'm saying nothing more, sorry! Hey Ms Ross you're a real tease, just saying! And as far as tension is concerned you don't spare a page, do you? Now I can't wait for book 5 to come out.
Angel is without doubt one of the best books I've read this year and hence it goes straight up to my top reads for 2016. Obviously I highly recommend, not only this book but the whole series.
With thanks to the author for an ARC of this fab book.
April 3, 2019
Angel by L.J. Ross This is the 4th book in the DCI Ryan Series
“Then, on Good Friday morning he is called out to a crime scene at one of the largest cemeteries in Newcastle. The body of a redheaded woman has been found buried in a shallow grave and the killer has given her wings, like an angel.”
The pace of this novel starts off running from page 1, and I loved the storyline – as it was both interesting and intriguing
After finishing this book – I had to continue on without a break. The series just draws you in
Within the pages is a killer who believes he is essentially a messenger of God and killing in his name.
“Then, on Good Friday morning he is called out to a crime scene at one of the largest cemeteries in Newcastle. The body of a redheaded woman has been found buried in a shallow grave and the killer has given her wings, like an angel.”
The pace of this novel starts off running from page 1, and I loved the storyline – as it was both interesting and intriguing
After finishing this book – I had to continue on without a break. The series just draws you in
Within the pages is a killer who believes he is essentially a messenger of God and killing in his name.
January 29, 2021
Ketvirtoji knygų serijos dalis.
Šioje dalyje Rajenas su komanda imasi naujos bylos. Niukaslo kapinėse aptinkamas raudonplaukės moters kūnas, kuriam žudikas suteikia angelo sparnus. Po pirmosios aukos, neprabėgus nei parai, randamas dar vienas kūnas, stulbinamai panašiomis aplinkybėmis. Atitikmenys? O tai jau serijinio žudiko braižas.
Man labai patinka, kad kiekvienoje dalyje prisiliečiame prie išskirtinių vietovių, kurios iš tikrųjų egzistuoja. Šį kartą keliamės į Nortumberlandą (šiaurės rytų Anglija), o simboliu tampa šiaurės angelo skulptūra.
Įdomu, kai skaitant knyga, gali stabtelti ir įlįsti į interneto platybes ir surasti knygose minimas vietoves.
"Angelas" šiek tiek mažiau patiko, nei praeitos dalys, ši buvo ne tokia intriguojanti, kiek labiau nuspėjama.
Teigiamų balų pridėjo pabaiga. Bombinė! Autorė žaidžia su mumis, puikiai žino, jog perskaitę paskutinę knygos pastraipą tikrai norėsime nedelsiant čiupti sekančią dalį.
L. J. Ross detektyvuose, taip ir šiame, daug veiksmo, įvairių vingių, posūkių, painių detalių. Čia rasite aprašomą tyrimo eigą, apžvelgsite įvairių specialistų darbą, rasite paraleliai su bylos nagrinėjimu einančią meilės liniją, kuri šioje dalyje nebuvo tokia saldi ir plačiai aprašoma, kaip ankstesnėse dalyse. Taip pat rasite šiek tiek lengvo humoro ir daug daug veiksmo.
Knygų serija įtraukia, neįpareigoja, suteikia malonumą skaitant, deja ilgesnio laiko perspektyvoje išblunka iš atminties.
Vis dar viliuosi, jog kitose dalyse bus dar labiau atskleisti pagrindiniai personažai, jie tiesiog reikalauja daugiau dėmesio, gilesnio žvilgsnio. Juk negali pagrindinis detektyvas būti toks tobulas, koks piešiamas knygose? Per saldu.
Rekomenduoju skaityti tiems, kurie mėgsta lengvosios artilerijos detektyvus. Skaitant šią knygą kraujas gyslose nestings, šiurpas kūnu nebėgios ir tikrai oro nepritrūksit. O bet tačiau greitai ir maloniai ir intriguojančiai įsisuksite į įvykių verpetus ir iki pabaigos spėliosite, kaip viskas išsirutulios.
Šioje dalyje Rajenas su komanda imasi naujos bylos. Niukaslo kapinėse aptinkamas raudonplaukės moters kūnas, kuriam žudikas suteikia angelo sparnus. Po pirmosios aukos, neprabėgus nei parai, randamas dar vienas kūnas, stulbinamai panašiomis aplinkybėmis. Atitikmenys? O tai jau serijinio žudiko braižas.
Man labai patinka, kad kiekvienoje dalyje prisiliečiame prie išskirtinių vietovių, kurios iš tikrųjų egzistuoja. Šį kartą keliamės į Nortumberlandą (šiaurės rytų Anglija), o simboliu tampa šiaurės angelo skulptūra.
Įdomu, kai skaitant knyga, gali stabtelti ir įlįsti į interneto platybes ir surasti knygose minimas vietoves.
"Angelas" šiek tiek mažiau patiko, nei praeitos dalys, ši buvo ne tokia intriguojanti, kiek labiau nuspėjama.
Teigiamų balų pridėjo pabaiga. Bombinė! Autorė žaidžia su mumis, puikiai žino, jog perskaitę paskutinę knygos pastraipą tikrai norėsime nedelsiant čiupti sekančią dalį.
L. J. Ross detektyvuose, taip ir šiame, daug veiksmo, įvairių vingių, posūkių, painių detalių. Čia rasite aprašomą tyrimo eigą, apžvelgsite įvairių specialistų darbą, rasite paraleliai su bylos nagrinėjimu einančią meilės liniją, kuri šioje dalyje nebuvo tokia saldi ir plačiai aprašoma, kaip ankstesnėse dalyse. Taip pat rasite šiek tiek lengvo humoro ir daug daug veiksmo.
Knygų serija įtraukia, neįpareigoja, suteikia malonumą skaitant, deja ilgesnio laiko perspektyvoje išblunka iš atminties.
Vis dar viliuosi, jog kitose dalyse bus dar labiau atskleisti pagrindiniai personažai, jie tiesiog reikalauja daugiau dėmesio, gilesnio žvilgsnio. Juk negali pagrindinis detektyvas būti toks tobulas, koks piešiamas knygose? Per saldu.
Rekomenduoju skaityti tiems, kurie mėgsta lengvosios artilerijos detektyvus. Skaitant šią knygą kraujas gyslose nestings, šiurpas kūnu nebėgios ir tikrai oro nepritrūksit. O bet tačiau greitai ir maloniai ir intriguojančiai įsisuksite į įvykių verpetus ir iki pabaigos spėliosite, kaip viskas išsirutulios.
December 18, 2019
Ross writes wonderful whodunits - mystery, tension, great characters, great plots, gripping storylines and, and...this one was, well, my one word summary was "eek" and it ends with a cliffhanger. This is not going to bother you because if you've got this far you are going to read all the damn books. I just want to binge-read them but am conscious of all the other good books in my tbr calling out "read me", "oh please read me". Decisions, decisions.
August 4, 2020
3,5/ 5
Kai pradėjau šią seriją ir pamačiau, kad kiekvienoje dalyje yra tęstinumas ir kiekviena dalis baigiasi taip, kad norisi kuo greičiau į rankas imti kitą dalį. Viena istorija truko tris dalis, tad prieš pradedant skaityti ketvirtąją, tikrai truputį nerimavau. O jeigu nepatiks? O jeigu pirmos dalys bus geresnės? Ir tikrai iš pradžių truputėlį panašiai ir galvojau, na, nes žudikas man buvo akivaizdus nuo vidurio knygos. BET!
Taip taip, yra vienas didelis bet, kuris yra - knygos pabaiga. Aš galiu pasakyti tik vieną, kad jei būčiau turėjusi kitą knygos dalį, būčiau ją i š k a r t o čiupusi į rankas! Autorė taip įdomiai ir įtemptai viską susuko ir užbaigė, kad tikrai padėjus knygą man reikėjo atgauti kvapą! Aš su nekantrumu laukiu, kai sužinosiu, kas vyksta toliau, nes panašu, kad bus dar daugiau įtampos!
Kalbant apie istoriją, tai ji tikrai pagauli. Detektyvas Rajenas susiduria su nauju žudiku, kuris žudo raudonplaukes moteris ir palieka jas vis kitose kapinėse.. Tad tenka susidurti su religija ir bažnyčia. Lyginant su kitomis dalimis, šioje autorė pateikia mažiausiai veikėjų asmeninių santykių, nes visas dėmesys šį kartą skiriamas žmogžudystės tyrimui, bet, žinoma, autorė nepamiršta vaizdingų Anglijos grafysčių, kurių tik ir norisi ieškoti internete, paslapčių, įtempto veiksmo ir įdomios, su religija susijusios istorijos!
Ši detektyvinių romanų serija yra viena mano mėgstamiausių. Ji greito skaitymo, lengvo, bet įdomaus siužeto, kiekvienoje iš dalių nestinga humoro, veikėjai man taip pat patinka. Labiausiai žaviuosi šiomis knygomis dėl jų tęstinumo, nes jos kaip serialas, tik knygų formatu! Šias knygas laikau tiem momentam, kai jaučiu, kad gręsia skaitymo blokas, ar šiaip norisi atsipalaiduoti! Rekomenduoju detektyvinių romanų mylėtojams, ieškantiems ir įtraukiančios istorijos, ir vaizdingo kraštovaizdžio, ir nemėgstantiems žiaurumų! Tik, žinoma, rekomenduoju pradėti nuo pirmosios dalies "Šventoji sala".
February 7, 2017
This is a series that really packed a punch right from the first book, Holy Island, and sometimes it can be difficult to keep up the momentum as a series progresses. But LJ Ross has such a captivating writing style that her books just seem to be getting better with each one! I will also say that each one is pretty self-contained so they can be read as standalone novels although the personal threads running through are so interesting that you will surely want to read them all anyway so I recommend you read them in the order they were written.
There’s such an intriguing case here for DCI Ryan to solve. When bodies start turning up, buried in graveyards and all looking similar, the police force realise that they have a serial killer on their hands. Even worse, it looks like red headed Mackenzie also fits the description of the murdered women so the race is on to discover the identity of The Graveyard Killer before he kills again. There’s barely time to take breath once the team start their investigations and there’s definitely not much time for personal relationships so they are put on the back burner for most of Angel. Is this the work of a religious zealot or is there a much deeper motive for the killing spree?
The first chapter really set the tone and pace for the rest of the book and once it grabbed me, it wasn’t letting go. I loved the camaraderie between the characters and the easy way they all came together, like a perfectly oiled machine! As usual the beautiful setting of Northumberland acts as a picturesque contrast to the dark and disturbing crimes committed here. In particular, at its heart, is the spectacular attraction The Angel of the North, a stunning visual landmark welcoming vistors to that part of the country. The comparison with the way the bodies were displayed was hard to miss and just added to my enjoyment of this gripping crime thriller. And now I just can’t wait to read the next one! Highly recommended by me.
There’s such an intriguing case here for DCI Ryan to solve. When bodies start turning up, buried in graveyards and all looking similar, the police force realise that they have a serial killer on their hands. Even worse, it looks like red headed Mackenzie also fits the description of the murdered women so the race is on to discover the identity of The Graveyard Killer before he kills again. There’s barely time to take breath once the team start their investigations and there’s definitely not much time for personal relationships so they are put on the back burner for most of Angel. Is this the work of a religious zealot or is there a much deeper motive for the killing spree?
The first chapter really set the tone and pace for the rest of the book and once it grabbed me, it wasn’t letting go. I loved the camaraderie between the characters and the easy way they all came together, like a perfectly oiled machine! As usual the beautiful setting of Northumberland acts as a picturesque contrast to the dark and disturbing crimes committed here. In particular, at its heart, is the spectacular attraction The Angel of the North, a stunning visual landmark welcoming vistors to that part of the country. The comparison with the way the bodies were displayed was hard to miss and just added to my enjoyment of this gripping crime thriller. And now I just can’t wait to read the next one! Highly recommended by me.
August 24, 2016
Even though Angel is the fourth book in the DCI Ryan Mystery series, it is actually the first one that I have read. Angel reads exceptionally well as a stand alone, though after reading Angel, I am dying to go back and start from the very beginning.
I really love the style of this authors writing. The characters and the story line had my attention through out, so much so that I seemed to be hurtling towards the ending well before I wanted to as I was enjoying it so much.
The actual murders have links to the catholic church which just seems to up the intrigue and mystery even more. The description of the church and grave yard gives you a sense of foreboding and it just added to the almost eeriness of the crime.
I loved DCI Ryan as well as some of the other characters in the book, they all make their own mark on the reader and stand out in their own way. Even though the author gives enough background to DCI Ryan so that I didn't feel like I was missing parts, he is a character that just demands more attention and makes you want to know more about him and how he thinks. The thought of knowing I have three previous books to devour is certainly a feeling that makes me very happy.
Angel is a gripping read that had me from the very beginning. It is a roller coaster of a read with plenty of thrills and chills and left me feeling quite wind swept by the end. Very much looking forward to seeing where things go for certain characters in the next book in the series.
My thanks to the author for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I really love the style of this authors writing. The characters and the story line had my attention through out, so much so that I seemed to be hurtling towards the ending well before I wanted to as I was enjoying it so much.
The actual murders have links to the catholic church which just seems to up the intrigue and mystery even more. The description of the church and grave yard gives you a sense of foreboding and it just added to the almost eeriness of the crime.
I loved DCI Ryan as well as some of the other characters in the book, they all make their own mark on the reader and stand out in their own way. Even though the author gives enough background to DCI Ryan so that I didn't feel like I was missing parts, he is a character that just demands more attention and makes you want to know more about him and how he thinks. The thought of knowing I have three previous books to devour is certainly a feeling that makes me very happy.
Angel is a gripping read that had me from the very beginning. It is a roller coaster of a read with plenty of thrills and chills and left me feeling quite wind swept by the end. Very much looking forward to seeing where things go for certain characters in the next book in the series.
My thanks to the author for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 30, 2021
I was, at the same time, happy and sad.
Happy beacause Anna and Ryan are so obviously happy and in love, but also sad because their time together here was short - sweet, but short!
But the mystery was so very ineteresting! I just love when the solution to a crime is in the past and to understand what's happening today they have to first understand the yeasterday!
But that ending!!! with that kind of cliffhanger I'm just happy not to have to wait for the next book! *wink*
Happy beacause Anna and Ryan are so obviously happy and in love, but also sad because their time together here was short - sweet, but short!
But the mystery was so very ineteresting! I just love when the solution to a crime is in the past and to understand what's happening today they have to first understand the yeasterday!
But that ending!!! with that kind of cliffhanger I'm just happy not to have to wait for the next book! *wink*
January 31, 2019
This is the 4 th in the series and was a good story, and a fast, easy read. We have DCI Ryan chasing down another serial killer, this one with a weakness for red headed women.If you have not read the previous books, I don’t think it is a problem, so it would work as a stand alone. There is some rehashing of old cases, but it doesn't disturb the story line. We get to know the other main characters a bit better, there’s not too much involvement of love interest Anna, apart from the mention of the planned wedding between Ryan and Anna, which I expect will take place in the next book :-)
The one thing I did not especially like about this book ( or any other novels really) is the very abrupt cliff hanger ending. This device smacks too much of “buy the next one”, and given L.J.Ross’ huge following, I can’t think why this would be necessary!
The one thing I did not especially like about this book ( or any other novels really) is the very abrupt cliff hanger ending. This device smacks too much of “buy the next one”, and given L.J.Ross’ huge following, I can’t think why this would be necessary!
December 13, 2020
Oh my goodness! I don't know if my blood pressure can keep up with the excitement of these audio books.
Angel is excellent, brought alive by Johnathan Keeble, a fantastic narrator.
Loving the series! Can't believe it's taken me so long to get around to them.
Angel is excellent, brought alive by Johnathan Keeble, a fantastic narrator.
Loving the series! Can't believe it's taken me so long to get around to them.
April 17, 2019
Another eventful time for DCI Ryan and his Team. As always, a fast paced book, although getting a bit predictable now after reading 4 of them. So will give him a rest for a while, but can certainly recommend and will look forward to catching up with him in a while.
September 12, 2016
I was so looking forward to this book, but I am afraid I was disappointed. Ryan seems to have lost his charm in this story and he came across as shallow and rather irritating. The ending was ... well, way OTT and yet at the same time rather 'meh'.
I have a serious liking (crush?) for quiet, damaged, repressed detectives and the first book in this series promised just that, but he seems to have become yet another rather full of his own self-importance.
Some of the writing was more than a little over-dramatic as well.
...his phone began to shrill out a tinny rendition of the Indiana Jones theme and the number for the Control Room flashed on the screen
'Work!'' he exclaimed gleefully. That 'gleefully' struck a really sour note with me,
...but their reverie was interrupted by the unpleasant sound of skin being drawn together as a mortuary clinician stitched together the open folds of a man's torso on the other side of the room. Do stitches make a sound?
... When he looked up, his eyes were a fierce silver.
...Finally he looked into Moffa's eyes, which were like empty pools of glacier water. Deadly and numb from the cold.
...then looked up with comical surprise writ large on his simian face. simian???,
...while each man tried to divest himself of the discomfiting, grimy residue left over from their visit.
...a wide range of mercurial moods from their chief inspector over the years,
... He was often short-tempered and intolerant of anything less than a job well done. His voice spoke of privilege, but his preferences were unpretentious. He was physically striking, a fact which he rarely used to his advantage and mostly detested as a distraction for the superficial mind. (Marty Stu anyone)
...Ryan could be sharp, cutting even towards those he considered incompetent or deceitful. He was prone to long silences during which he ruminated on the possibilities surrounding a case and he knew the value of silence in drawing people out. He had a quick humour and appreciated the same in others. He was not a violent man, nor did he seek it out, but there lingered the suggestion of violence simmering beneath the surface. The mask he wore to look upon the dead gave the impression of indifference but it hid an emotional well of feeling.
Wow. A bit of an info dump there methinks ;)
Anyway. This was a bit of a bust after the first three books. But I will be looking for the Ryan book - with the hope that this was just a 'blip' .
I have a serious liking (crush?) for quiet, damaged, repressed detectives and the first book in this series promised just that, but he seems to have become yet another rather full of his own self-importance.
Some of the writing was more than a little over-dramatic as well.
...his phone began to shrill out a tinny rendition of the Indiana Jones theme and the number for the Control Room flashed on the screen
'Work!'' he exclaimed gleefully. That 'gleefully' struck a really sour note with me,
...but their reverie was interrupted by the unpleasant sound of skin being drawn together as a mortuary clinician stitched together the open folds of a man's torso on the other side of the room. Do stitches make a sound?
... When he looked up, his eyes were a fierce silver.
...Finally he looked into Moffa's eyes, which were like empty pools of glacier water. Deadly and numb from the cold.
...then looked up with comical surprise writ large on his simian face. simian???,
...while each man tried to divest himself of the discomfiting, grimy residue left over from their visit.
...a wide range of mercurial moods from their chief inspector over the years,
... He was often short-tempered and intolerant of anything less than a job well done. His voice spoke of privilege, but his preferences were unpretentious. He was physically striking, a fact which he rarely used to his advantage and mostly detested as a distraction for the superficial mind. (Marty Stu anyone)
...Ryan could be sharp, cutting even towards those he considered incompetent or deceitful. He was prone to long silences during which he ruminated on the possibilities surrounding a case and he knew the value of silence in drawing people out. He had a quick humour and appreciated the same in others. He was not a violent man, nor did he seek it out, but there lingered the suggestion of violence simmering beneath the surface. The mask he wore to look upon the dead gave the impression of indifference but it hid an emotional well of feeling.
Wow. A bit of an info dump there methinks ;)
Anyway. This was a bit of a bust after the first three books. But I will be looking for the Ryan book - with the hope that this was just a 'blip' .
March 18, 2018
Just as good as the previous two, but with a slightly less twisty surprise. I enjoyed it; the multiple povs, gentle and mature love between the H and his lady love, the dry humour, and all the detective legwork made for an engaging read. The ending was a bit of an “Oh, come on!” moment, and I’ll have to wait until the next one to see if it makes sense.
August 8, 2020
Detektyvas Rajenas sugrįžo į mano skaitinius su trenksmu. Pirmuose trijuose romanuose buvo nagrinėjama Rato byla. Istorijos tikrai patiko, nes iki pat pabaigos rašytoja tampė nervus išduodama ne viską. Buvo labai smalsu, ar rašytoja ir toliau išlaikys tokį tempą ir taip pat prikaustys dėmesį.
Inkspektorius ir jo komanda sugrįžo su ne mažiau intriguojančia raudonplaukių moterų žmogžudysčių byla. Velykų išvakarėse viena po kitos randamos nužudytos moterys kapo duobėse su lotynišku rašteliu šalia apie nuodėmių išrišimą. Visi aplink supanikuoja, ypač raudonplaukės moterys, ir Rajenui tenka skubiai vytis serijinį žudiką. Iškapstoma daugybė paslapčių ir iš tiesų atomazga visai netikėta.
Šie detektyvai romanai man patinka tuo, kad lengvai skaitosi yra labai dinamiški ir pagaulūs. Siužetas dažnai pasižymi mistiniais ar religiniais motyvais. Puslapiai verčiasi savaime, nes vienas įvykis seka kitą. O dar žavusis Rajenas, kuris nepatikti negali.
Būtinai skaitysiu ir kitą knygos dalį, nes pabaiga be galo suintrigavo. Iš tiesų, labai įdomu, kaip ten viskas bus. O šią romanų seriją rekomenduočiau skaityti tiems, kas nori lengvo ir įtraukiančio detektyvo.
Inkspektorius ir jo komanda sugrįžo su ne mažiau intriguojančia raudonplaukių moterų žmogžudysčių byla. Velykų išvakarėse viena po kitos randamos nužudytos moterys kapo duobėse su lotynišku rašteliu šalia apie nuodėmių išrišimą. Visi aplink supanikuoja, ypač raudonplaukės moterys, ir Rajenui tenka skubiai vytis serijinį žudiką. Iškapstoma daugybė paslapčių ir iš tiesų atomazga visai netikėta.
Šie detektyvai romanai man patinka tuo, kad lengvai skaitosi yra labai dinamiški ir pagaulūs. Siužetas dažnai pasižymi mistiniais ar religiniais motyvais. Puslapiai verčiasi savaime, nes vienas įvykis seka kitą. O dar žavusis Rajenas, kuris nepatikti negali.
Būtinai skaitysiu ir kitą knygos dalį, nes pabaiga be galo suintrigavo. Iš tiesų, labai įdomu, kaip ten viskas bus. O šią romanų seriją rekomenduočiau skaityti tiems, kas nori lengvo ir įtraukiančio detektyvo.
January 22, 2018
I could not resist lifting LJ Ross’ Angel off the floor to read the back cover, and before I truly realized, I was about five chapters into this book. Thus, I just kept reading as it was very difficult to stop - again! DCI Ryan and his team had finished The Circle, and for a short while, Northumberland CID are the darlings of Newcastle-upon-Tyne. As Easter Bank Holiday weekend approaches, NCID is looking forward to spending time off and being with their loved ones. On Good Friday Anna, Ryan’s fianceé, begins to discuss ‘wedding favours’ with him. He wants out of the room any way he can get out. His phone rings - work! Ryan then finds himself at a large cemetery where a woman who is a redhead rests dead in a hastily dug grave. A new victim - a new killer. It is going to be a very long weekend, but not the one Ryan was hoping to spend as another redhead female disappears. DI Mackenzie, a member of Ryan’s team and a redhead, will she be victimized? The ending of this book already has me reaching for #5 in this series. This series just grabs one and will not let go! LJ Ross is “the number one bestselling author”, and I certainly understand why she is! 4.5-5 stars!
December 27, 2018
I love the way this series just continues to grow the characters and up the suspense. In this case DCI Ryan and his team are after a killer who is strangling women and posing them so they look like angels with wings. And all the women are redheads and within the same age range. With very little evidence to go on - the killer is meticulous, leaving nothing behind - the team begins to build their case piece by piece, looking for anything that will give them a clue as to his identity. Then another woman goes missing and they must race against time if they want to bring her back alive.
Once I pick up one of these books, I don't want to put it down. I'm totally sold on Ryan and his team and really like the path the author has them traveling down. The personal details add to the appeal of the story. Definitely recommend this series. Each book can be read alone if desired.
Once I pick up one of these books, I don't want to put it down. I'm totally sold on Ryan and his team and really like the path the author has them traveling down. The personal details add to the appeal of the story. Definitely recommend this series. Each book can be read alone if desired.
December 19, 2024
this is another great book by LJ Ross!! i didn’t want to put it down!! the twists and turns in this book was amazing!!! i love how all the stories and perspectives worked together and it wasn’t overwhelming!! i understood everything and the way it all perfectly fit together was amazing!! i 100% recommend this book and i want to buy the next one IMMEDIATELY to know what happens next!!!
November 14, 2021
& Lj Ross does it again! That ending omg! Each time I pick up one of these books I want to grab the next one straight away! Loved the story and the mysteriousness to this one, I thought I caught onto the killer too but not quite, I was close though! Cant wait to pick up the next book!
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