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Maeve Kerrigan #8
Cruel Acts
Leo Stone is a killer. A year ago, he was convicted of murdering two women and sentenced to life without parole. But now, a juror from his trial has revealed the jury was prejudiced, and a retrial is called.
Detectives Maeve Kerrigan and Josh Derwent are tasked with re-examining the evidence. Before long, they uncover links between Stone and a possible third victim.
But with Stone behind bars, a fourth woman disappears in similar circumstances. Is there a copycat killer out there, or have they been wrong about Stone from the start? And will Maeve discover the truth before another innocent victim is killed?
Detectives Maeve Kerrigan and Josh Derwent are tasked with re-examining the evidence. Before long, they uncover links between Stone and a possible third victim.
But with Stone behind bars, a fourth woman disappears in similar circumstances. Is there a copycat killer out there, or have they been wrong about Stone from the start? And will Maeve discover the truth before another innocent victim is killed?
368 pages, Hardcover
First published April 4, 2019
1302 people are currently reading
2325 people want to read
About the author
Jane Casey
36 books2,672 followersShe studied English at Jesus College, Oxford, followed by an mPhil in Anglo-Irish Literature at Trinity College, Dublin
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 536 reviews
April 12, 2019
It's a joy to read Jane Casey's latest addition to the DS Maeve Kerrigan of the London Met police series, which has become a favourite of mine. A major reason for that is the often spiky but close and complex relationship between Maeve and her partner and superior, DI Josh Derwent. Josh has no qualms about picking on her personal life, she has none since her break up with Rob Langton. She has been struggling to get over it, pouring all her energies into the job, a job she has a real talent for, although Josh keeps niggling at her to find a life outside of it. Maeve and Josh find themselves re-investigating an old case, that of Leo Stone, when his conviction and sentencing for life, for the killing of two women, Sarah Grey and Willa Howard, is overturned when a juror reveals the jury was prejudiced. With a retrial coming up, it is down to Maeve and Josh to sift through the evidence and determine whether Stone is indeed guilty.
For Josh, its straightforward, their job is simply to reinforce the findings of the original police inquiry headed by DCI Whitlock, but Maeve is not so convinced of Stone's guilt and more open minded. She hones in on another missing woman, Rachel Healey, who is likely to have been another victim of Stone's, but the police failed to find evidence or her body. Despite the scepticism from the rest of the police, Maeve feels Rachel deserves justice and should not just be forgotten. However, Maeve and Josh find their inquiries derailed when another woman, teacher Tessa Marsh, goes missing in a manner that eerily echoes that of Stone's original victims. With Stone out on bail, but with an ironclad alibi, is there a copycat killer on the loose? Maeve and Josh find themselves with the most twisted of investigations, shifting from one direction to another as Maeve chips away, uncovering surprising leads, as it turns out there are more victims than they could ever have imagined.
Casey writes a riveting and beautifully plotted addition to her enthralling DS Kerrigan series, packed with suspense and tension, so much so that once you begin reading, it is hard to stop until you come to the end. The characters and their development are brilliant, and the relationships in the police team feel realistic, with the politics and rivalries, especially that of the ambitious and jealous DC Georgia Shaw and her below the radar machinations to discredit Maeve. This is a hugely compelling read, it is crime fiction that stands out. Fans of Jane Casey will love it, as indeed will those who have yet to discover Maeve Kerrigan. Many thanks to HarperCollins for an ARC.
For Josh, its straightforward, their job is simply to reinforce the findings of the original police inquiry headed by DCI Whitlock, but Maeve is not so convinced of Stone's guilt and more open minded. She hones in on another missing woman, Rachel Healey, who is likely to have been another victim of Stone's, but the police failed to find evidence or her body. Despite the scepticism from the rest of the police, Maeve feels Rachel deserves justice and should not just be forgotten. However, Maeve and Josh find their inquiries derailed when another woman, teacher Tessa Marsh, goes missing in a manner that eerily echoes that of Stone's original victims. With Stone out on bail, but with an ironclad alibi, is there a copycat killer on the loose? Maeve and Josh find themselves with the most twisted of investigations, shifting from one direction to another as Maeve chips away, uncovering surprising leads, as it turns out there are more victims than they could ever have imagined.
Casey writes a riveting and beautifully plotted addition to her enthralling DS Kerrigan series, packed with suspense and tension, so much so that once you begin reading, it is hard to stop until you come to the end. The characters and their development are brilliant, and the relationships in the police team feel realistic, with the politics and rivalries, especially that of the ambitious and jealous DC Georgia Shaw and her below the radar machinations to discredit Maeve. This is a hugely compelling read, it is crime fiction that stands out. Fans of Jane Casey will love it, as indeed will those who have yet to discover Maeve Kerrigan. Many thanks to HarperCollins for an ARC.
October 26, 2022
ONE SENTENCE REVIEW Tons of pace, red herrings galore, and an uncomfy relationship that made me want to know more???
SYNOPSIS
Leo Stone was convicted of murdering two women, but due to a jury technicality, he's let out a year later. In anticipating for his retrial, DS Maeve Kerrigan and DI Josh Derwent need to revisit the case to make sure they got the right stone-cold serial killer.
MY OPINION
Why yes this is book #8 and why yes this is the first book I've read in this series and from this author. What do you expect at this point???? 😂 Anyways, I would say it can definitely be read as a standalone with the caveat that the vibes between Kerrigan and Derwent are difficult to decipher. I didn't factor this into my review because it is a series and obviously their relationship has been building across several books. But, there were many times I was like... is this a surrogate father-daughter relationship or does he want to take her to b0ne town?? I know Freud is ROLLIN in his grave reading this. Just to be clear: it's a b0ne town thing. Their relationship definitely gave me Lacey and Mark vibes from Sharon Bolton's DC Lacey Flint series. But this was even MORE subtle. And yet, I am intrigued to the max and I want them to kith (kiss).
And although I said I was intrigued by the Maeve/Derwent vibulations, I don't like Derwent's character at all. He's narrow-minded, brash, and egotistical. But like Kourtney Kardashian and Scott Disick, I want them to be together. No, I will not be taking any questions at this time. Yes, I have a therapist. 😂 Moving on... Maeve didn't really have a personality except hardworking. I didn't like how she was bending over backwards to accommodate Derwent and his many moods but would go titty to titty with miss Georgia (a brat). But at the same damn time, I am intrigued by Maeve. IDK!!!! I AM CONFUSION OKAY!!!! All I know is I bought #9 and started reading it right away and requested #10 on NetGalley. So whatever cr@ck Casey put in this book, I liked it.
Ok, moving past the relationship storyline, the writing was definitely above average for the genre (no shade). Casey was leveraging the group of threes like a pro. I appreciated the flow and the suspense she cultivated. The writing quality definitely helped me go Ray Charles to some suspicious scenes like Maeve being "prettied up" for the cameras after a particularly harrowing near-death escape. Who TF cares if she looks a mess??? She almost DIED.
The plot was well-executed with plenty of red herrings. I thought I had it, but I didn't. One of the last twisty twists prompted a lil side-eye but oh well. And the pace??? Usain Bolt. Michael Phelps. Me when I hear there's a library sale. At 50% I thought, gddamn what more could occur? But occur it did. This is certainly not a slow burn. Casey jumps right in and keeps the plot a movin.
I would recommend to those who like the Lacey Flint and DD Warren series. Although Maeve isn't as unnecessarily rude af as DD (thank fk), the writing quality is similar to Gardner's.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: she had me wanting more and idk why lmao, good writing, intriguing vibes between Maeve and Derwent, solid pace, great plot-execution
Cons: sometimes Maeve was a lil daft and that beauty makeover scene after the near-death experience had me annoyed lmao
SYNOPSIS
Leo Stone was convicted of murdering two women, but due to a jury technicality, he's let out a year later. In anticipating for his retrial, DS Maeve Kerrigan and DI Josh Derwent need to revisit the case to make sure they got the right stone-cold serial killer.
MY OPINION
Why yes this is book #8 and why yes this is the first book I've read in this series and from this author. What do you expect at this point???? 😂 Anyways, I would say it can definitely be read as a standalone with the caveat that the vibes between Kerrigan and Derwent are difficult to decipher. I didn't factor this into my review because it is a series and obviously their relationship has been building across several books. But, there were many times I was like... is this a surrogate father-daughter relationship or does he want to take her to b0ne town?? I know Freud is ROLLIN in his grave reading this. Just to be clear: it's a b0ne town thing. Their relationship definitely gave me Lacey and Mark vibes from Sharon Bolton's DC Lacey Flint series. But this was even MORE subtle. And yet, I am intrigued to the max and I want them to kith (kiss).
And although I said I was intrigued by the Maeve/Derwent vibulations, I don't like Derwent's character at all. He's narrow-minded, brash, and egotistical. But like Kourtney Kardashian and Scott Disick, I want them to be together. No, I will not be taking any questions at this time. Yes, I have a therapist. 😂 Moving on... Maeve didn't really have a personality except hardworking. I didn't like how she was bending over backwards to accommodate Derwent and his many moods but would go titty to titty with miss Georgia (a brat). But at the same damn time, I am intrigued by Maeve. IDK!!!! I AM CONFUSION OKAY!!!! All I know is I bought #9 and started reading it right away and requested #10 on NetGalley. So whatever cr@ck Casey put in this book, I liked it.
Ok, moving past the relationship storyline, the writing was definitely above average for the genre (no shade). Casey was leveraging the group of threes like a pro. I appreciated the flow and the suspense she cultivated. The writing quality definitely helped me go Ray Charles to some suspicious scenes like Maeve being "prettied up" for the cameras after a particularly harrowing near-death escape. Who TF cares if she looks a mess??? She almost DIED.
The plot was well-executed with plenty of red herrings. I thought I had it, but I didn't. One of the last twisty twists prompted a lil side-eye but oh well. And the pace??? Usain Bolt. Michael Phelps. Me when I hear there's a library sale. At 50% I thought, gddamn what more could occur? But occur it did. This is certainly not a slow burn. Casey jumps right in and keeps the plot a movin.
I would recommend to those who like the Lacey Flint and DD Warren series. Although Maeve isn't as unnecessarily rude af as DD (thank fk), the writing quality is similar to Gardner's.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: she had me wanting more and idk why lmao, good writing, intriguing vibes between Maeve and Derwent, solid pace, great plot-execution
Cons: sometimes Maeve was a lil daft and that beauty makeover scene after the near-death experience had me annoyed lmao
March 23, 2025
23.3.25 reread complete. Still brilliant.
I love this series so much. It's been a bit of a wait for this one but trust me it's worth every minute.
Here's what I know about the Kerrigan series generally.
It has the best "friendship" in fiction out there at the moment within the ever changing ebb and flow of the relationship between Maeve Kerrigan and Josh Derwent.
The mystery elements are always stunningly immersive, clever and relevant whilst being amongst some of the most addictive plots out there.
Beautifully written always.
Cruel Acts? A brilliant and hugely emotional plotline, Derwent in fine form, Maeve doing her thing and just a time stealing, rip roaring, cleverly nuanced page turner.
ALL the love. I'll review more professionally nearer publication. But it's like really good. So there's that.
Highly recommended. The whole lot.
I love this series so much. It's been a bit of a wait for this one but trust me it's worth every minute.
Here's what I know about the Kerrigan series generally.
It has the best "friendship" in fiction out there at the moment within the ever changing ebb and flow of the relationship between Maeve Kerrigan and Josh Derwent.
The mystery elements are always stunningly immersive, clever and relevant whilst being amongst some of the most addictive plots out there.
Beautifully written always.
Cruel Acts? A brilliant and hugely emotional plotline, Derwent in fine form, Maeve doing her thing and just a time stealing, rip roaring, cleverly nuanced page turner.
ALL the love. I'll review more professionally nearer publication. But it's like really good. So there's that.
Highly recommended. The whole lot.
April 20, 2019
Bestselling crime writer Jane Casey is back with the eighth instalment in the gripping DS Maeve Kerrigan series, and once again it is packed with the gritty realism we have come to expect from Ms Casey. Although part of a popular and long-running series these books work perfectly as standalones as each plot is contained to that particular episode. If you appreciate your crime fiction to be authentic and based in fact then this is not to be missed; every tale the author tells is infused with believable detail, fully rounded characters and unpredictability aplenty.
This is by far her best procedural to date and that really is saying something given all of her books make it impossible for you to read them in anything but a single sitting. This is a series for those who enjoy intelligent plotting, compassionate characters and exploration of prevalent real-world issues which provides much food for thought throughout. All of this and a stunningly unexpected climax to boot. Jane Casey is one of the master storytellers of our time. I urge crime connoisseurs who haven't indulged in her novels yet to pick, this. up. Many thanks to HarperCollins for an ARC.
This is by far her best procedural to date and that really is saying something given all of her books make it impossible for you to read them in anything but a single sitting. This is a series for those who enjoy intelligent plotting, compassionate characters and exploration of prevalent real-world issues which provides much food for thought throughout. All of this and a stunningly unexpected climax to boot. Jane Casey is one of the master storytellers of our time. I urge crime connoisseurs who haven't indulged in her novels yet to pick, this. up. Many thanks to HarperCollins for an ARC.
May 2, 2019
Although this is the 8th book in the Maeve Kerrigan series, I have to confess I have not read the others in this series but I could not help but want to read this book immediately!!
Leo Stone was in prison after being found guilty of killing 2 women, but now there are doubts that he is guilty and is released from prison.
D.S Maeve Kerrigan and D.I josh Derwent are convinced he is guilty and are determined that at the retrial he will be found guilty and sent back to prison. Leo is adamant he is innocent and D.S Maeve is having doubts also, especially when another woman goes missing. Is there a copy cat killer out there or was Stone never the killer!!
I loved this book and the relationship between Josh and Maeve. It is totally addictive and I feel like I need to read all the other books in this series ASAP.
If you haven’t read a Jane Casey book before then you are seriously missing out!!
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review.
Leo Stone was in prison after being found guilty of killing 2 women, but now there are doubts that he is guilty and is released from prison.
D.S Maeve Kerrigan and D.I josh Derwent are convinced he is guilty and are determined that at the retrial he will be found guilty and sent back to prison. Leo is adamant he is innocent and D.S Maeve is having doubts also, especially when another woman goes missing. Is there a copy cat killer out there or was Stone never the killer!!
I loved this book and the relationship between Josh and Maeve. It is totally addictive and I feel like I need to read all the other books in this series ASAP.
If you haven’t read a Jane Casey book before then you are seriously missing out!!
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review.
September 23, 2019
Maieve Kerrigan #8
Leo Stone had been convicted of murder but a lawyer has lodged an appeal. It seems some of the jurors had looked up his past crimes and found him guilty for them and not just the crime he was being tried for. So there's now a case for miscarriage of justice. Leo Stone is released and it's not long before a woman goes missing in similar circumstances Leo was charged with. Is it a copycat offender or is Leo back re-offending.
DS Maive Kerrigan and DI Josh Derwent are the officers who investigated when Leo Stone's case was quashed for jury irregularities. Another woman has disappeared. The tension flows off the pages. The characters are well rounded and the plot line believable. I did not k ow that this was the eighth book in this series. I don't usually like to read books out of the order they were written in, but I think this book can be read as a standalone. I will eventually go back and read this series from the beginning. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.
I would like to thank Netgalley, HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction and the author Jane Casey for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Leo Stone had been convicted of murder but a lawyer has lodged an appeal. It seems some of the jurors had looked up his past crimes and found him guilty for them and not just the crime he was being tried for. So there's now a case for miscarriage of justice. Leo Stone is released and it's not long before a woman goes missing in similar circumstances Leo was charged with. Is it a copycat offender or is Leo back re-offending.
DS Maive Kerrigan and DI Josh Derwent are the officers who investigated when Leo Stone's case was quashed for jury irregularities. Another woman has disappeared. The tension flows off the pages. The characters are well rounded and the plot line believable. I did not k ow that this was the eighth book in this series. I don't usually like to read books out of the order they were written in, but I think this book can be read as a standalone. I will eventually go back and read this series from the beginning. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.
I would like to thank Netgalley, HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction and the author Jane Casey for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 10, 2021
Having loved the most recent instalment in the DS Maeve Kerrigan series earlier this year, I thought I'd read some of the earlier titles.
I somehow seem to be working through them in reverse order as my local library only had the previous entry avaliable, though like all strong crime dramas there's a standalone element to them that it doesn't matter too much that I'm dipping into them out of sequence.
I just reminded how much I like the pairing of Kerrigan and Derwent.
In this instance the pair are tasked with reinvesting an old case where Leo Stone was convicted of murdering two women a year ago and has now been released on a technicality.
The reverting plot follows Kerrigan starting to have doubts of Stone's guilt, especially as a third women has disappeared in similar circumstances.
The fact that I'm enjoying this series means it would probably make more sense to go out and buy the first one, especially as I've not been disappointed so far...
I somehow seem to be working through them in reverse order as my local library only had the previous entry avaliable, though like all strong crime dramas there's a standalone element to them that it doesn't matter too much that I'm dipping into them out of sequence.
I just reminded how much I like the pairing of Kerrigan and Derwent.
In this instance the pair are tasked with reinvesting an old case where Leo Stone was convicted of murdering two women a year ago and has now been released on a technicality.
The reverting plot follows Kerrigan starting to have doubts of Stone's guilt, especially as a third women has disappeared in similar circumstances.
The fact that I'm enjoying this series means it would probably make more sense to go out and buy the first one, especially as I've not been disappointed so far...
April 18, 2019
This is the 8th full length novel in the Maeve Kerrigan series by the excellent author Jane Casey.
I have been looking forward to this book for sometime and it was well worth the wait.
Maeve Kerrigan is an ambitious young detective constable based in London. When convicted murderer Leo Stone is released DS Maeve Kerrigan and DI Josh Derwent are determined to put Stone back behind bars. Leo Stone states he is a victim of a miscarriage of justice, but Kerrigan is convinced he was rightfully convicted of the murder of two women and sentenced to life in prison. Now Stone is free, pleading his innocence and the more Maeve Kerrigan finds out, the less convinced she is of his guilt. Then another woman disappears in similar circumstances. Is there a copycat killer, or have they been wrong about Stone from the start?
This series is well worth reading, excellent plots, interesting believable characters and so well paced. The biggest problem you will have with this series is once you start reading it you will struggle to put the books down.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Harper Collins for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
I have been looking forward to this book for sometime and it was well worth the wait.
Maeve Kerrigan is an ambitious young detective constable based in London. When convicted murderer Leo Stone is released DS Maeve Kerrigan and DI Josh Derwent are determined to put Stone back behind bars. Leo Stone states he is a victim of a miscarriage of justice, but Kerrigan is convinced he was rightfully convicted of the murder of two women and sentenced to life in prison. Now Stone is free, pleading his innocence and the more Maeve Kerrigan finds out, the less convinced she is of his guilt. Then another woman disappears in similar circumstances. Is there a copycat killer, or have they been wrong about Stone from the start?
This series is well worth reading, excellent plots, interesting believable characters and so well paced. The biggest problem you will have with this series is once you start reading it you will struggle to put the books down.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Harper Collins for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
February 21, 2019
Hands up, I'm not a fan of the 'serial killer abducting and torturing young women' genre... but, but this is Jane Casey, right? So while the basic plot-line is very familiar, what Casey adds is an acute interest in characterisation, pulled off to supremely creepy effect.
Less stellar is Maeve herself in this outing - after so many books (and I've been with her from the start) it would be nice to see Maeve relaxing her rigid, untouchable stance with her colleagues - but no, she's *still* uptight, touchy, and just generally not much fun to be around. I mean I know her job is stressful, but apart from one or two rather laboured jokes with Josh Derwent, she's pretty morose - in real life, she'd be that awkward one in the corner who doesn't do lunch or team drinks... It's a bit unbelievable, then, that witnesses open up to our Maeve - and for someone so strong on emotional IQ in investigations, she's still unbelievably obtuse when it comes to Derwent...
A few niggles apart, though, this is another fluent, gripping, compulsive read from Casey - I finished it in 24 hours after staying up way too late at night. Not the best in the series (clichéd plotline, yet another alone-and-no-back-up confrontations with a killer) but still head and shoulders above most crime fiction out there.
Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC via NetGalley
Less stellar is Maeve herself in this outing - after so many books (and I've been with her from the start) it would be nice to see Maeve relaxing her rigid, untouchable stance with her colleagues - but no, she's *still* uptight, touchy, and just generally not much fun to be around. I mean I know her job is stressful, but apart from one or two rather laboured jokes with Josh Derwent, she's pretty morose - in real life, she'd be that awkward one in the corner who doesn't do lunch or team drinks... It's a bit unbelievable, then, that witnesses open up to our Maeve - and for someone so strong on emotional IQ in investigations, she's still unbelievably obtuse when it comes to Derwent...
A few niggles apart, though, this is another fluent, gripping, compulsive read from Casey - I finished it in 24 hours after staying up way too late at night. Not the best in the series (clichéd plotline, yet another alone-and-no-back-up confrontations with a killer) but still head and shoulders above most crime fiction out there.
Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC via NetGalley
July 4, 2021
Polisiye kısmı güzeldi, sabahladım zaten o yüzden. Ama kişisel hayatı için ne desem bilemiyorum. Bence o kısımlar biraz saçma gibi bilemedim, garip bir his bıraktı. Yani sevgili yazar artık yaz işte bekleneni, on kere işaret çakıp duruyorsun. Artık sabrımızı zorluyor. 🥲
September 7, 2022
Hem polisiye kısmı hem de Maeve'nin özel hayatı ile ilgili ne desem spoiler olacak 🤐 O yüzden sadece Jane yine güzel yazmış demekle yetiniyorum. Hatta özlemişim Maeve'yi, yetmedi bu kitap. Acaba seriyi baştan yine mi okusam 🤔
November 20, 2019
Another great one in this terrific series. I love Maeve Kerrigan and have a crush on Josh Derwent. Can't wait for the next one (no. 9) coming out in April. Highly recommended!
February 20, 2025
2025 Re-Read:
Not really much I can add to my 2019 review below as it pretty much covers everything. Except the fact that I'd have happily dropped Georgia down one of the septic tanks, never to be seen again.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
2019 Review:
DS Maeve Kerrigan and DI Josh Derwent investigate when Leo Stone's murder conviction for murdering two women is quashed due to jury irregularities during the trial. He is released from prison and another woman disappears in similar circumstances to the previous two. Is Leo Stone the killer he is thought to be or is he being used as a scapegoat?
I've read the last three books in this series fairly close together as I was conscious of this latest one being released this month. The case itself is more interesting than some of the previous ones, but it seems to take a backseat to personal and professional rivalries. With this book I've found myself reversing my previous position and now find myself on the side of #TeamDerwent. He's infuriating in many ways but he obviously cares for Maeve a great deal, the signs of which she refuses to see as anything more than his mercurial character. She doesn't actually talk to him to find out what is going on, just assumes she knows, reacts accordingly, and makes things worse. Some of the scenes between them in this book practically smoulder with chemistry, plus I'm not a big fan of the new man in her life. Will have to wait and see what the next in the series brings.
Thanks to NetGalley and publishers, HarperCollins UK, for the opportunity to review an ARC.
Not really much I can add to my 2019 review below as it pretty much covers everything. Except the fact that I'd have happily dropped Georgia down one of the septic tanks, never to be seen again.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
2019 Review:
DS Maeve Kerrigan and DI Josh Derwent investigate when Leo Stone's murder conviction for murdering two women is quashed due to jury irregularities during the trial. He is released from prison and another woman disappears in similar circumstances to the previous two. Is Leo Stone the killer he is thought to be or is he being used as a scapegoat?
I've read the last three books in this series fairly close together as I was conscious of this latest one being released this month. The case itself is more interesting than some of the previous ones, but it seems to take a backseat to personal and professional rivalries. With this book I've found myself reversing my previous position and now find myself on the side of #TeamDerwent. He's infuriating in many ways but he obviously cares for Maeve a great deal, the signs of which she refuses to see as anything more than his mercurial character. She doesn't actually talk to him to find out what is going on, just assumes she knows, reacts accordingly, and makes things worse. Some of the scenes between them in this book practically smoulder with chemistry, plus I'm not a big fan of the new man in her life. Will have to wait and see what the next in the series brings.
Thanks to NetGalley and publishers, HarperCollins UK, for the opportunity to review an ARC.
November 3, 2019
The eighth instalment in the superior police procedural series featuring uptight and conscientious DS Maeve Kerrigan and her sparring partner, DI Josh Derwent, once again makes for a riveting read, despite starting with the hackneyed premise of a serial killer preying on attractive female victims. Thankfully Jane Casey breathes new life into an overused set-up and the compelling characterisation and team dynamics of Maeve Kerrigan and the Murder Investigation Team mean Cruel Acts is head and shoulders above most of this genre. And with a few nifty curveballs in the unfolding plot this one isn’t quite as straightforward as it sounds.
When the conviction against double murderer, Leo Stone, is deemed unsafe due to the jurors admitting to researching his violent past on the internet and he is released ahead of a retrial, officious DCI Una Burt charges DI Josh Derwent and DS Maeve Kerrigan with reinvestigating the case and making sure it sticks a second time around. With the judgement of the terminally ill pathologist who worked on the case also called into question, Maeve barely has time to prepare before creepy Leo Stone asks for a meeting. But as much as he makes her skin crawl even she recognises that the CPS were pretty lucky to secure a conviction first time around, with the evidence circumstantial and not wholly convincing.
Although Derwent and Maeve agree they need something fresh to ensure the conviction is upheld, they disagree about the direction with Maeve determined to conclusively rule out her suspicion that another missing young woman who fits the profile, Rachel Healy, might also have been a victim. As they meet the families of Stone’s two victims, Maeve also investigates the case of Rachel and builds a picture of Stone’s relationship with his recently reunited son, Kelly. But the disappearance of another female fitting the profile of his earlier victims following on from Stone’s release sends the team scrambling in another direction.
Brusque DCI Una Burt, a temporary replacement for the smoothly diplomatic Superintendent Charles Godley displays her usual disdain for Maeve, whilst slippery DC Georgia Shaw maintains her instinct for career advancement and stepping into the shoes of Maeve with extra cattiness. The relationship between DI Josh Derwent and DS Maeve Kerrigan is however, central to the series and for all their snipes, put-downs and cutting remarks, there is a bond that makes them fascinating to watch. For all Derwent’s bluster and Maeve’s cool exterior there is a connection and trust that makes for a winning combination.
DS Maeve Kerrigan feels recognisably human and is perhaps the crime fiction protagonist that I find it easiest to empathise with, and the first-person narrative of Maeve is witty, honest, and over-sensitive. Her fixation on following the trail of another missing woman, unconnected to the previous case against Stone, is unswerving, even when it is to the detriment of her career and at odds with her superiors. Despite a lapse in judgment that sees her ‘officially’ sidelined from the case it is Maeve’s diligence and legwork in probing the original investigation and her instincts about Rachel Healy that pay dividends. Although the case has a solid resolution I did feel that the ending was slightly abrupt and needed more satisfactory explanation, but that aside this is another gripping outing for Maeve.
When the conviction against double murderer, Leo Stone, is deemed unsafe due to the jurors admitting to researching his violent past on the internet and he is released ahead of a retrial, officious DCI Una Burt charges DI Josh Derwent and DS Maeve Kerrigan with reinvestigating the case and making sure it sticks a second time around. With the judgement of the terminally ill pathologist who worked on the case also called into question, Maeve barely has time to prepare before creepy Leo Stone asks for a meeting. But as much as he makes her skin crawl even she recognises that the CPS were pretty lucky to secure a conviction first time around, with the evidence circumstantial and not wholly convincing.
Although Derwent and Maeve agree they need something fresh to ensure the conviction is upheld, they disagree about the direction with Maeve determined to conclusively rule out her suspicion that another missing young woman who fits the profile, Rachel Healy, might also have been a victim. As they meet the families of Stone’s two victims, Maeve also investigates the case of Rachel and builds a picture of Stone’s relationship with his recently reunited son, Kelly. But the disappearance of another female fitting the profile of his earlier victims following on from Stone’s release sends the team scrambling in another direction.
Brusque DCI Una Burt, a temporary replacement for the smoothly diplomatic Superintendent Charles Godley displays her usual disdain for Maeve, whilst slippery DC Georgia Shaw maintains her instinct for career advancement and stepping into the shoes of Maeve with extra cattiness. The relationship between DI Josh Derwent and DS Maeve Kerrigan is however, central to the series and for all their snipes, put-downs and cutting remarks, there is a bond that makes them fascinating to watch. For all Derwent’s bluster and Maeve’s cool exterior there is a connection and trust that makes for a winning combination.
DS Maeve Kerrigan feels recognisably human and is perhaps the crime fiction protagonist that I find it easiest to empathise with, and the first-person narrative of Maeve is witty, honest, and over-sensitive. Her fixation on following the trail of another missing woman, unconnected to the previous case against Stone, is unswerving, even when it is to the detriment of her career and at odds with her superiors. Despite a lapse in judgment that sees her ‘officially’ sidelined from the case it is Maeve’s diligence and legwork in probing the original investigation and her instincts about Rachel Healy that pay dividends. Although the case has a solid resolution I did feel that the ending was slightly abrupt and needed more satisfactory explanation, but that aside this is another gripping outing for Maeve.
April 2, 2020
I haven’t read any Jane Casey books before and realise now that I have been massively missing out. ‘Cruel Acts’ is the eighth book in the DS Maeve Kerrigan series, though I would never have realised it, as this book can be read and easily followed as a stand-alone.
I was engrossed from the first page and thoroughly addicted to the storyline. I loved the relationship between Maeve and DI Josh Derwent and feel the author has produced one the best fictional police partnerships I’ve recently read.
I will be reading the previous books featuring Kerrigan and I look forward to now reading the next in this entertaining and well written series ‘The Cutting Place’.
Many thanks to my friend and reading buddy Rachel Hall for sending me her copy and introducing me to a fantastic author and series.
5 stars
I was engrossed from the first page and thoroughly addicted to the storyline. I loved the relationship between Maeve and DI Josh Derwent and feel the author has produced one the best fictional police partnerships I’ve recently read.
I will be reading the previous books featuring Kerrigan and I look forward to now reading the next in this entertaining and well written series ‘The Cutting Place’.
Many thanks to my friend and reading buddy Rachel Hall for sending me her copy and introducing me to a fantastic author and series.
5 stars
April 11, 2019
I would like to thank Netgalley and HarperCollins UK, Harper Fiction for an advance copy of Cruel Acts, the eighth police procedural to feature DS Maeve Kerrigan of the Met.
Maeve and her boss, DI Josh Derwent are asked to re-investigate the case of Leo Stone who was convicted of two murders but released on appeal after a year in prison. Derwent and his superiors see it as a case of confirming their evidence for the retrial, Maeve isn’t so sure and becomes preoccupied with a potential third victim whose body was never found.
I thoroughly enjoyed Cruel Acts which had me gripped from start to finish. It is not a high octane, action packed thriller, although it has its moments, but rather, an intense investigation with plenty of twists and turns, false starts and blind alleys. Told in the first person from Maeve’s point of view it has an absorbing, detailed plot which gives the reader a good view of the crimes and the politics involved in solving them and allows room for reader speculation. I was amazed at how it turns out, not least because there are no early hints. Is it fair to keep information hidden? I say yes because it surprises the reader and is a fair imitation of real life investigation.
Maeve Kerrigan can be a difficult character to like at times. She is a clear eyed investigator who often produces the forward momentum in the investigation but she’s very uptight and has no sense of humour. The number of times I wanted to say “lighten up” or “get over yourself” is beyond counting. Still, I enjoyed her interactions with Derwent and her thoughts on life, hers in particular.
Cruel Acts is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
Maeve and her boss, DI Josh Derwent are asked to re-investigate the case of Leo Stone who was convicted of two murders but released on appeal after a year in prison. Derwent and his superiors see it as a case of confirming their evidence for the retrial, Maeve isn’t so sure and becomes preoccupied with a potential third victim whose body was never found.
I thoroughly enjoyed Cruel Acts which had me gripped from start to finish. It is not a high octane, action packed thriller, although it has its moments, but rather, an intense investigation with plenty of twists and turns, false starts and blind alleys. Told in the first person from Maeve’s point of view it has an absorbing, detailed plot which gives the reader a good view of the crimes and the politics involved in solving them and allows room for reader speculation. I was amazed at how it turns out, not least because there are no early hints. Is it fair to keep information hidden? I say yes because it surprises the reader and is a fair imitation of real life investigation.
Maeve Kerrigan can be a difficult character to like at times. She is a clear eyed investigator who often produces the forward momentum in the investigation but she’s very uptight and has no sense of humour. The number of times I wanted to say “lighten up” or “get over yourself” is beyond counting. Still, I enjoyed her interactions with Derwent and her thoughts on life, hers in particular.
Cruel Acts is a good read which I have no hesitation in recommending.
April 18, 2019
A thriller, a chiller and a serial killer...
Leo Stone was convicted of killing two women and sentenced to life imprisonment. But now one of the jurors has revealed that the jury broke the rules and as a result his conviction is certain to be overturned when it comes before the Appeals Court. There will be a retrial, but Superintendent Godley wants to make certain that he’s convicted again, so Detective Sergeant Maeve Kerrigan and Detective Inspector Josh Derwent are assigned to reinvestigate the case and to find more evidence if they can. Maeve quickly discovers in the files that there was a third woman who may have been a victim of Stone’s too, but he was never charged with her murder for lack of evidence. Maeve’s sense of empathy for this victim makes her determined to find out the truth of what happened to her too. In the midst of the investigation, after Stone has been released, another woman goes missing...
Well, it’s been a long wait for this latest instalment in Jane Casey’s excellent Maeve Kerrigan series, but this is well worth waiting for. As always, it’s told in the first person (past tense) by Maeve, so that we get her often humorous take on the people around her, especially Derwent. Their relationship has settled into a rather more equal friendship now that Maeve is more experienced, but that doesn’t stop Derwent from lecturing her about her personal life, being over-protective, embarrassing her at every opportunity and generally winding her up. For all that, she knows there’s no-one she’d rather have beside her when things get dangerous.
The other regulars are back too. Una Burt, Maeve’s boss, still doesn’t much like her and the feeling is mutual. Liv appears a bit more in this one – another colleague and Maeve’s best friend. Godley is back, though he plays only a small role. Maeve still looks up to him, but in a more mature way than the hero-worship she felt for him in the early days. And the new girl on the team, Georgia, is back too, just as obnoxious, and just as jealous of Maeve’s success. Followers of the series are doubtless thinking, yes, but what about Maeve’s love life? Is Rob back? Or is there a new man on the scene? Or are Maeve and Josh...? You don’t really expect me to tell you though, do you? ;)
In general, I’m not wild about serial killer stories and helpless females being tortured and killed, but I was right to trust Casey to handle it with her usual sensitivity and good taste. Although women are killed, the reader is not put in the room with them as it’s happening – there’s nothing prurient or gratuitous in the writing; no lengthy descriptions of torture scenes designed to titillate. That doesn’t stop it from being heart-in-mouth thrilling and chilling at points, though. The prologue is wonderfully scary and the thriller ending is tense and dramatic, with several scenes dotted throughout that also had my anxiety levels rocketing.
When it turns out that Leo Stone has an alibi for the time of the latest disappearance, Maeve and Derwent have to consider whether he was innocent of the earlier murders or if there’s a copycat out there. I thoroughly enjoyed the plotting in this one. I didn’t work it out – I rarely do – but all the clues are there. I always think that Casey plots like a Golden Age author, giving the reader a fair chance to do a bit of armchair detecting, although in every other respect her stories and characters are entirely modern.
I also love that Maeve tries hard to stay within the rules. While her personal life might be a bit complicated, she’s no angst-ridden maverick. The same goes for her colleagues, in fact – they’re probably the most realistic police team I can think of, and while there are petty jealousies and squabbles, they behave overall like the kind of professional force I’d like to think we actually have. The women are not always struggling to be taken seriously by sexist bosses, which delights me since I think it’s such an out-dated image in most of our public services now, and completely overused in crime fiction. Casey simply has men and women working together as a team as if... gasp... it’s normal! But she still allows room for a bit of banter and the occasional flirtation, and she doesn’t feel the need to make the women superheroes or the men weaklings.
While this could easily be read as a standalone, I do recommend reading this series in order to get the full nuances of all the various relationships within the team, and especially to understand Maeve and Josh’s complicated friendship. For existing fans, you’re in for a treat with this one – isn’t it great to have Maeve back? Highly recommended, and I sincerely hope Ms Casey is hard at work on the next one...
NB This book was provided for review by the publisher, HarperCollins.
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Leo Stone was convicted of killing two women and sentenced to life imprisonment. But now one of the jurors has revealed that the jury broke the rules and as a result his conviction is certain to be overturned when it comes before the Appeals Court. There will be a retrial, but Superintendent Godley wants to make certain that he’s convicted again, so Detective Sergeant Maeve Kerrigan and Detective Inspector Josh Derwent are assigned to reinvestigate the case and to find more evidence if they can. Maeve quickly discovers in the files that there was a third woman who may have been a victim of Stone’s too, but he was never charged with her murder for lack of evidence. Maeve’s sense of empathy for this victim makes her determined to find out the truth of what happened to her too. In the midst of the investigation, after Stone has been released, another woman goes missing...
Well, it’s been a long wait for this latest instalment in Jane Casey’s excellent Maeve Kerrigan series, but this is well worth waiting for. As always, it’s told in the first person (past tense) by Maeve, so that we get her often humorous take on the people around her, especially Derwent. Their relationship has settled into a rather more equal friendship now that Maeve is more experienced, but that doesn’t stop Derwent from lecturing her about her personal life, being over-protective, embarrassing her at every opportunity and generally winding her up. For all that, she knows there’s no-one she’d rather have beside her when things get dangerous.
The other regulars are back too. Una Burt, Maeve’s boss, still doesn’t much like her and the feeling is mutual. Liv appears a bit more in this one – another colleague and Maeve’s best friend. Godley is back, though he plays only a small role. Maeve still looks up to him, but in a more mature way than the hero-worship she felt for him in the early days. And the new girl on the team, Georgia, is back too, just as obnoxious, and just as jealous of Maeve’s success. Followers of the series are doubtless thinking, yes, but what about Maeve’s love life? Is Rob back? Or is there a new man on the scene? Or are Maeve and Josh...? You don’t really expect me to tell you though, do you? ;)
In general, I’m not wild about serial killer stories and helpless females being tortured and killed, but I was right to trust Casey to handle it with her usual sensitivity and good taste. Although women are killed, the reader is not put in the room with them as it’s happening – there’s nothing prurient or gratuitous in the writing; no lengthy descriptions of torture scenes designed to titillate. That doesn’t stop it from being heart-in-mouth thrilling and chilling at points, though. The prologue is wonderfully scary and the thriller ending is tense and dramatic, with several scenes dotted throughout that also had my anxiety levels rocketing.
When it turns out that Leo Stone has an alibi for the time of the latest disappearance, Maeve and Derwent have to consider whether he was innocent of the earlier murders or if there’s a copycat out there. I thoroughly enjoyed the plotting in this one. I didn’t work it out – I rarely do – but all the clues are there. I always think that Casey plots like a Golden Age author, giving the reader a fair chance to do a bit of armchair detecting, although in every other respect her stories and characters are entirely modern.
I also love that Maeve tries hard to stay within the rules. While her personal life might be a bit complicated, she’s no angst-ridden maverick. The same goes for her colleagues, in fact – they’re probably the most realistic police team I can think of, and while there are petty jealousies and squabbles, they behave overall like the kind of professional force I’d like to think we actually have. The women are not always struggling to be taken seriously by sexist bosses, which delights me since I think it’s such an out-dated image in most of our public services now, and completely overused in crime fiction. Casey simply has men and women working together as a team as if... gasp... it’s normal! But she still allows room for a bit of banter and the occasional flirtation, and she doesn’t feel the need to make the women superheroes or the men weaklings.
While this could easily be read as a standalone, I do recommend reading this series in order to get the full nuances of all the various relationships within the team, and especially to understand Maeve and Josh’s complicated friendship. For existing fans, you’re in for a treat with this one – isn’t it great to have Maeve back? Highly recommended, and I sincerely hope Ms Casey is hard at work on the next one...
NB This book was provided for review by the publisher, HarperCollins.
www.fictionfanblog.wordpress.com
May 26, 2020
I’m really struggling to read during this COVID-19 global pandemic of 2020. Normally reading is such a comfort, but I can’t lose myself in books the way I usually do. I’m not sure what impact this’ll have on my ratings.
Having said that, I loved this instalment of the Maeve Kerrigan and Josh Derwent series. They have an oddly dysfunctional working relationship, but it mostly works for them, and is certainly compelling for me. Another great story with twists and turns along the way.
My rating strategy:
5 stars = An all time favourite, I could tell you about this 10 years later.
4 stars = Loved this, really gripping/fun/exciting, will remember long term.
3 stars = Definitely enjoyed, might forget quickly though, but happy to read more by the author.
2 stars = Likely to have some goood points, but it didn't properly captivate me.
1 star = Not my cup of tea at all, wouldn't return to the author.
Having said that, I loved this instalment of the Maeve Kerrigan and Josh Derwent series. They have an oddly dysfunctional working relationship, but it mostly works for them, and is certainly compelling for me. Another great story with twists and turns along the way.
My rating strategy:
5 stars = An all time favourite, I could tell you about this 10 years later.
4 stars = Loved this, really gripping/fun/exciting, will remember long term.
3 stars = Definitely enjoyed, might forget quickly though, but happy to read more by the author.
2 stars = Likely to have some goood points, but it didn't properly captivate me.
1 star = Not my cup of tea at all, wouldn't return to the author.
August 23, 2024
I love Maeve Kerrigan books and this one is no exception.
Gripping, tense, full of twists and turns, complex and yet easy to read and follow, Jane Casey writes with ease and brilliance and you won't be able to put Cruel Acts down.
Highly recommended.
Gripping, tense, full of twists and turns, complex and yet easy to read and follow, Jane Casey writes with ease and brilliance and you won't be able to put Cruel Acts down.
Highly recommended.
May 2, 2019
Cruel Acts is one of the best crime mysteries I’ve read recently and helped me get out of the reading slump I was in.
I was immediately drawn into the story and intrigued by the idea that a miscarriage of justice could have been done. I was wondering how the story would unfold, what with it being a cold case, but the author is very clever with the way new information about the case is discovered. This is done in a realistic and subtle way with the author slowly revealing holes in the original investigation which ensured I was thoroughly gripped!
I loved the two main characters Kerrigan and Derwent who seemed to work well together, despite sometimes rubbing each other up the wrong way. They obviously care about each other which was lovely to read about and made for some quite dramatic though funny scenes. It was interesting to learn more about their lives outside of being police officers as it helped me to understand what makes them tick. Kerrigan is a wonderful, clever character who was fascinating to watch solve the case as she often found little clues that no one else manages to. She works hard and has gained a lot of respect from her colleagues for this. It was sad to see her wrong footed from a seemingly innocent mistake but watching her fight back made for great reading.
This is a fast paced gripping book which I thoroughly enjoyed reading. There is lots of action happening either with the case of in their personal lives which made the book hard to put down. The twists in this book took me totally by surprise and I kept being wrong footed over what had happened. The way the investigation goes was completely different to what I expected and I was completely shocked with the ending which had me on the edge of my seat whilst reading. This is the first book from this author that I’ve read and I’m excited to have found a new crime series to enjoy.
Huge thanks to Harper Collins for my copy of this book via Netgalley which I received in exchange for an honest review.
I was immediately drawn into the story and intrigued by the idea that a miscarriage of justice could have been done. I was wondering how the story would unfold, what with it being a cold case, but the author is very clever with the way new information about the case is discovered. This is done in a realistic and subtle way with the author slowly revealing holes in the original investigation which ensured I was thoroughly gripped!
I loved the two main characters Kerrigan and Derwent who seemed to work well together, despite sometimes rubbing each other up the wrong way. They obviously care about each other which was lovely to read about and made for some quite dramatic though funny scenes. It was interesting to learn more about their lives outside of being police officers as it helped me to understand what makes them tick. Kerrigan is a wonderful, clever character who was fascinating to watch solve the case as she often found little clues that no one else manages to. She works hard and has gained a lot of respect from her colleagues for this. It was sad to see her wrong footed from a seemingly innocent mistake but watching her fight back made for great reading.
This is a fast paced gripping book which I thoroughly enjoyed reading. There is lots of action happening either with the case of in their personal lives which made the book hard to put down. The twists in this book took me totally by surprise and I kept being wrong footed over what had happened. The way the investigation goes was completely different to what I expected and I was completely shocked with the ending which had me on the edge of my seat whilst reading. This is the first book from this author that I’ve read and I’m excited to have found a new crime series to enjoy.
Huge thanks to Harper Collins for my copy of this book via Netgalley which I received in exchange for an honest review.
September 16, 2019
I have been waiting for the next book in the Maeve Kerrigan series to be published so I was very happy and eager to read Cruel Acts when it was released. I didn't want to get on a waiting list to read so purchased the book. All of the Maeve Kerrigan books in the series have been very good. I think this book was perhaps my favorite so far of the books. The series doesn't get stale but seems to get better and better.
I am not going to write a synopsis of the plot as others have done that. I like this series due to the characterization. I especially enjoy the relationship between Maeve and Derwent. Characters alone can't carry books if the plots don't support the books and this series is very good crime fiction. Jane Casey has become one of my favorite top two authors. I would like to say if you like Ellie Griffith's Ruth Galloway series and are waiting for the next book, give The Burning (the first book) a try. I think you will find another favorite author. I, also, think one should start at the beginning of the series because it is character driven. Soon you might be waiting for the next Jane Casey book like I am.
I am not going to write a synopsis of the plot as others have done that. I like this series due to the characterization. I especially enjoy the relationship between Maeve and Derwent. Characters alone can't carry books if the plots don't support the books and this series is very good crime fiction. Jane Casey has become one of my favorite top two authors. I would like to say if you like Ellie Griffith's Ruth Galloway series and are waiting for the next book, give The Burning (the first book) a try. I think you will find another favorite author. I, also, think one should start at the beginning of the series because it is character driven. Soon you might be waiting for the next Jane Casey book like I am.
November 24, 2019
I just love this series! Book 8 offered everything I have come to expect from Jane Casey - a well-plotted gritty police procedural. All the characters I have come to love over the previous 7 books were back, which made this one irresistible for me. I look forward to the next book in the series.
June 2, 2019
I love Jane Casey's mysteries and characters SO MUCH.
rtc.
rtc.
December 29, 2019
One of the few consistently good (excellent,really) series.
December 16, 2021
How often can you dive into a crime series at book 8, with no issues??
This was compelling stuff, hard to put down. Well written - plot and character driven. Casey you have my attention.
The promised slow burn romance going absolutely strong, I feel like I’ve cheated big time coming in so late.
I’m completely intrigued by the past, eager to read the preceding books, but the pull of book 9 is much stronger in this moment.
Highly recommend.
This was compelling stuff, hard to put down. Well written - plot and character driven. Casey you have my attention.
The promised slow burn romance going absolutely strong, I feel like I’ve cheated big time coming in so late.
I’m completely intrigued by the past, eager to read the preceding books, but the pull of book 9 is much stronger in this moment.
Highly recommend.
May 8, 2019
Another great one, definitely one of my favorites. Casey really know how to keep you engaged through interviews and other parts that would otherwise seem tedious if they were done even a little differently. I like how realistically Maeve's character has developed over time.
Beautifully written and engaging, as usual. I can't wait for the next one, I will definitely be preordering again.
One aspect I'm frustrated by is the stagnation of Maeve's relationship with Derwent. Either kiss or decide to be friends, but this "I'm avoiding Derwent" and "I don't trust him" nonsense has become repetitive and it's not really making sense to me anymore given their history together. He has flaws (so does she) but he's fundamentally a good person and she has to know that, after everything. So when she acts wary of him, like he's dangerous or evil, I feel confused by it. Maybe I'm missing something. That attitude seemed to break down a bit in this book and it seems like things were set up to be different next book, but we'll see. I also thought that before and then she was back to the same nonsense next book.
The lightest, funniest moments in the series are invariably the interactions between the two of them, with their banter and their great chemistry. It was unexpected at first, and now it's come to be one of my favorite parts of the series.
Beautifully written and engaging, as usual. I can't wait for the next one, I will definitely be preordering again.
One aspect I'm frustrated by is the stagnation of Maeve's relationship with Derwent. Either kiss or decide to be friends, but this "I'm avoiding Derwent" and "I don't trust him" nonsense has become repetitive and it's not really making sense to me anymore given their history together. He has flaws (so does she) but he's fundamentally a good person and she has to know that, after everything. So when she acts wary of him, like he's dangerous or evil, I feel confused by it. Maybe I'm missing something. That attitude seemed to break down a bit in this book and it seems like things were set up to be different next book, but we'll see. I also thought that before and then she was back to the same nonsense next book.
The lightest, funniest moments in the series are invariably the interactions between the two of them, with their banter and their great chemistry. It was unexpected at first, and now it's come to be one of my favorite parts of the series.
October 30, 2019
Another excellent tale from Jane Casey. By the time you get to 8th in a series, there starts being a limit to what you can write about a book. There is no real reason not to read the books in order, so anybody sneaking a preview is already wholly committed to the series. And if I threw in a spoiler about Maeve and Josh's wedding day, it is likely that the committed reader would realise I was taking the mick.
A complicated story of things not being quite how they seem, of red-herrings, cul-de-sacs, due process and finally a twist that I didn't see coming.
Also the relationship between Maeve and Josh. Always professional because it's hardly friendly. And yet, it's never really going to resolve itself!
A complicated story of things not being quite how they seem, of red-herrings, cul-de-sacs, due process and finally a twist that I didn't see coming.
Also the relationship between Maeve and Josh. Always professional because it's hardly friendly. And yet, it's never really going to resolve itself!
May 24, 2019
3.5* rounded rounded down.
I think I must have had too long a gap between instalment #7 and this one, but the Maeve/Rob/Derwent dynamic felt a bit tired to me. The set-up was interesting and the plot moved along fairly quickly, but I wasn't sure why everyone was so quick to hang Maeve out to dry for meeting with Kelly at the beginning. The identity of the culprit came a bit out of left field and suggested a poor level of intelligence gathering all along the line. The final scenes in Leo's bathroom went on too long for me in a thriller rather than police procedural mode and I skimmed them.
Slightly disappointed as I usually love these.
I think I must have had too long a gap between instalment #7 and this one, but the Maeve/Rob/Derwent dynamic felt a bit tired to me. The set-up was interesting and the plot moved along fairly quickly, but I wasn't sure why everyone was so quick to hang Maeve out to dry for meeting with Kelly at the beginning. The identity of the culprit came a bit out of left field and suggested a poor level of intelligence gathering all along the line. The final scenes in Leo's bathroom went on too long for me in a thriller rather than police procedural mode and I skimmed them.
Slightly disappointed as I usually love these.
April 22, 2019
HUZZAH! The tremendulant (copyright @BookishChat) Maeve Kerrigan returns in this, her 8th outing as if she has never been away!
She and Derwent are bickering like an old married couple as they try to determine Leo's innocence or guilt in the cases of 3 murders-2 bodies found and the third tied to Leo with evidence which at best is cicrumstantial. Is Leo guilty of these crimes? Was he working with someone else or is he guilty of entirely different crimes?
This book twists and turns as it plays with your perceptions of right and wrong, the concept of trial by media and what an authetnically 'bad guy' looks like.Leo Stone is an odious criminal prescence who you want to bat away from Maeve and yell 'Leave her alone' as he sets his sights on getting to know her better after his release from prison.
Due to a 'tell all' juror writing a memoir of the case, all evidence was considered and a retrail with a new trial granted. The families of the 2 women who were found have little faith that the police did a good job first time around and Jane Casey does a fantastic job putting you in the room with the victims of the crime. Her light touch and small nuances really bring home the human elements behind the public story-the beautiful victims, the hunt for them, the nasty killer with criminal written through him like a stick of rock.
Or is he?
Are we too quick to condemn a person due to their class, their background and past behaviour?
When Leo is finally out, and another woman goes missing, is it to throw the police off the scent and away from him? Is it an accomplice or a copycat? Is Leo guilty of anything more than being a reprehensible dickhead or is he capable of more?
The examination of the justice system is seen from so many sides that the reader has a fully rounded idea of the practicalities of a murder investigation and reopening of case files. You see it from, the detecting side, the public side, the forensics aspect and the legal one too.
As a police procedural, it is intensely gripping. The sheer talent that Jane has to keep these characters moving and developing after 8 books and short stories whilst juggling plotlines as gripping and relevant as this is a mark of sheer talent.
The prospect and application of justice is a concept we all juggle with as pedestrians so how must it feel for those behind the wheek, the ones who do not pass go and drive their passengers straight to jail?
It's no surprise to say I was gripped to the very last word after which I am going to re-read the whiole series (again). It's a book to lose yourself in, a great and recommended read.
She and Derwent are bickering like an old married couple as they try to determine Leo's innocence or guilt in the cases of 3 murders-2 bodies found and the third tied to Leo with evidence which at best is cicrumstantial. Is Leo guilty of these crimes? Was he working with someone else or is he guilty of entirely different crimes?
This book twists and turns as it plays with your perceptions of right and wrong, the concept of trial by media and what an authetnically 'bad guy' looks like.Leo Stone is an odious criminal prescence who you want to bat away from Maeve and yell 'Leave her alone' as he sets his sights on getting to know her better after his release from prison.
Due to a 'tell all' juror writing a memoir of the case, all evidence was considered and a retrail with a new trial granted. The families of the 2 women who were found have little faith that the police did a good job first time around and Jane Casey does a fantastic job putting you in the room with the victims of the crime. Her light touch and small nuances really bring home the human elements behind the public story-the beautiful victims, the hunt for them, the nasty killer with criminal written through him like a stick of rock.
Or is he?
Are we too quick to condemn a person due to their class, their background and past behaviour?
When Leo is finally out, and another woman goes missing, is it to throw the police off the scent and away from him? Is it an accomplice or a copycat? Is Leo guilty of anything more than being a reprehensible dickhead or is he capable of more?
The examination of the justice system is seen from so many sides that the reader has a fully rounded idea of the practicalities of a murder investigation and reopening of case files. You see it from, the detecting side, the public side, the forensics aspect and the legal one too.
As a police procedural, it is intensely gripping. The sheer talent that Jane has to keep these characters moving and developing after 8 books and short stories whilst juggling plotlines as gripping and relevant as this is a mark of sheer talent.
The prospect and application of justice is a concept we all juggle with as pedestrians so how must it feel for those behind the wheek, the ones who do not pass go and drive their passengers straight to jail?
It's no surprise to say I was gripped to the very last word after which I am going to re-read the whiole series (again). It's a book to lose yourself in, a great and recommended read.
February 28, 2019
Another excellent novel in the Maeve Kerrigan series. As usual, the relationship between Kaerrigan and her DI Derwent, which fairly sizzles at times, takes centre stage but the 'cruel acts' of the title give this serial killer mystery its menace and tension, and real sense of evil. Review to follow shortly on For Winter Nights.
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