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DI Nikki Galena #7
Buried on the Fens
Description
A SKELETON IS UNEARTHED FROM A SHALLOW GRAVE IN THE CHURCHYARD. BUT THIS WAS NOT AN OFFICIAL BURIAL. THE VICTIM WAS MURDERED DECADES AGO.
At the same time, Detective Nikki Galena and her team are investigating the brutal slaying of local businesswoman Madeline Prospero. She was a member of an exclusive and secretive drinking club called The Briar Patch. But they’ve got no suspects and no one is telling them the truth.
Meanwhile, the buried skeleton leads them on a trail to the village of Quintin Eaudyke. This is a troubled place. In the late seventies and eighties a reign of terror and abuse was unleashed on the close-knit population.
When more women from the The Briar Patch come under threat, Nikki faces a race against time to stop the killing.
Full of twists and turns, this is a crime thriller that will keep you turning the pages until the heart-stopping ending.
A SKELETON IS UNEARTHED FROM A SHALLOW GRAVE IN THE CHURCHYARD. BUT THIS WAS NOT AN OFFICIAL BURIAL. THE VICTIM WAS MURDERED DECADES AGO.
At the same time, Detective Nikki Galena and her team are investigating the brutal slaying of local businesswoman Madeline Prospero. She was a member of an exclusive and secretive drinking club called The Briar Patch. But they’ve got no suspects and no one is telling them the truth.
Meanwhile, the buried skeleton leads them on a trail to the village of Quintin Eaudyke. This is a troubled place. In the late seventies and eighties a reign of terror and abuse was unleashed on the close-knit population.
When more women from the The Briar Patch come under threat, Nikki faces a race against time to stop the killing.
Full of twists and turns, this is a crime thriller that will keep you turning the pages until the heart-stopping ending.
331 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 10, 2017
2212 people are currently reading
1644 people want to read
About the author
Joy Ellis
59 books2,370 followersJoy Ellis grew up in Kent but moved to London when she won an apprenticeship with the prestigious Mayfair florist, Constance Spry Ltd. Having run her own flower shop in Weybridge for many years, Ellis then worked as a bookseller until a trip to the Greek island of Skyros, where she took part in a writer's workshop with Sue Townsend, encouraged her to write her own books. Joy soon after moved to the Lincolnshire Fens, where she has spent many of years living among the countryside accompanied by her partner, Jacqueline, and her variety of springer spaniels. After many years of writing, Jasper Joffe, from Joffe Books, discovered Joy's work and approached her with the offer of becoming her new publisher. This new relationship introduced Joy's work to the fascinating world of ebooks and audible listening. Since their partnership, Joy's success has grown further than she could have ever imagined. She has recently celebrated her 10th UK No.1 book on the Amazon 'Best Sellers' chart, with her 9th instalment in the Jackman & Evans series, Solace House. Joy boasts a staggering estimated total over 3.4 million copies sold worldwide, and became a short-listed nominee at the British Book Awards, 2021.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 351 reviews
December 24, 2022
A Great Conclusion!
Detective Nikki Galena and Detective Joseph Easter are trying to solve the identity of a body found in a church cemetery.
It leads to a crime that occurred thirty years ago. But is the crime linked to a recent murder that has just happened.
The author uses everything that she can think of to make this book topsy turvy. You don’t know which way to think about the murderer.
And when the identity of the murderer is revealed, you still don’t know who it is.
This book is recommended.
Four stars. ✨✨✨✨
Detective Nikki Galena and Detective Joseph Easter are trying to solve the identity of a body found in a church cemetery.
It leads to a crime that occurred thirty years ago. But is the crime linked to a recent murder that has just happened.
The author uses everything that she can think of to make this book topsy turvy. You don’t know which way to think about the murderer.
And when the identity of the murderer is revealed, you still don’t know who it is.
This book is recommended.
Four stars. ✨✨✨✨
June 17, 2024
Book seven in the DI Nikki Galena series and for me this was the best one so far.
Nikki and her team have two cases running at the same time. One involves the discovery of a skeleton in a shallow grave and the investigation of this stirs up all sorts of emotions in the small village where it is found. The other is the vicious murder of a local business woman which turns out to be just the first of many. The race is on to find the murderer and stop the killings.
I am enjoying the way this series involves such dramatic crimes and at the same time follows the daily lives of the team members and their relationships. Their lighthearted interactions are a relief from the nastier moments that they have to deal with. Nikki Galena is an excellent character, managing her team well even under stress and often spotting clues which help solve the case.
As soon as I finish each of these books I am looking forward to the next one - a sure sign of an excellent series.
Nikki and her team have two cases running at the same time. One involves the discovery of a skeleton in a shallow grave and the investigation of this stirs up all sorts of emotions in the small village where it is found. The other is the vicious murder of a local business woman which turns out to be just the first of many. The race is on to find the murderer and stop the killings.
I am enjoying the way this series involves such dramatic crimes and at the same time follows the daily lives of the team members and their relationships. Their lighthearted interactions are a relief from the nastier moments that they have to deal with. Nikki Galena is an excellent character, managing her team well even under stress and often spotting clues which help solve the case.
As soon as I finish each of these books I am looking forward to the next one - a sure sign of an excellent series.
April 21, 2020
I’ve been rolling through this series, as it’s fast become my favorite audiobook series. I was happy to see that Ellis is adding to the team which helps to keep things fresh. Flip side, Joseph’s ex- wife has stayed after Tamsin’s wedding and is making his life miserable. (Nikki’s, too, for that matter.)
The team has two murders to solve. The first dates back 30 years, but the skeleton was just discovered in a local church’s graveyard. The other was the murder of a local business woman, who was a member of a private social club. In both instances, those that might know something aren’t talking. As always, the story moved at a brisk pace and kept my attention. There are several possible suspects and I had no idea which of them could be the murderer.
I can’t recommend this series enough for those that like strong police procedurals with fascinating characters.
Henrietta Meike continues to do a fabulous job as the narrator.
The team has two murders to solve. The first dates back 30 years, but the skeleton was just discovered in a local church’s graveyard. The other was the murder of a local business woman, who was a member of a private social club. In both instances, those that might know something aren’t talking. As always, the story moved at a brisk pace and kept my attention. There are several possible suspects and I had no idea which of them could be the murderer.
I can’t recommend this series enough for those that like strong police procedurals with fascinating characters.
Henrietta Meike continues to do a fabulous job as the narrator.
July 7, 2024
Detective Inspector Nikki Galena and her team had just begun the investigation into the brutal death of a local woman, Madeline Prospero, when they were called to the church where a skeleton had been discovered in a shallow grave, but who hadn't been buried officially. That skeleton took them on a long and twisted ride to the village of Quintin Eaudyke, where the residents' past were hidden, unable to be spoken of. The reign of terror and abuse was long lasting and the locals had trouble speaking of those bad days.
The Prospero case was deemed a priority but their investigations revealed nothing. When a secretive club came to light, Nikki was more than frustrated by the members' reticence, vowing to find a way to make them talk. But when more bodies were discovered, all brutally abused, Nikki knew the race was on...
Buried on the Fens is #7 in this addictive series by Joy Ellis. With excellent characters who work together well, plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader on their toes, and a brilliant conclusion, I'm really looking forward to #8 next month. A highly recommended series.
The Prospero case was deemed a priority but their investigations revealed nothing. When a secretive club came to light, Nikki was more than frustrated by the members' reticence, vowing to find a way to make them talk. But when more bodies were discovered, all brutally abused, Nikki knew the race was on...
Buried on the Fens is #7 in this addictive series by Joy Ellis. With excellent characters who work together well, plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader on their toes, and a brilliant conclusion, I'm really looking forward to #8 next month. A highly recommended series.
May 17, 2018
This is a 4.5 star read.
A stunning return to form by Joy Ellis for her 7th novel in the DI Nikki Galena series! This time around it really did feel like coming home, it was that easy and comfortable to fall back into Nikki's world surrounded by the Fens.
The start of our story sees Nikki, Joe and the rest of her team dealing with budget cuts within her station alongside working in tandem with colleague DI Gill Mercer on the brutal death of local businesswoman Madeline Prospero. When a skeletal body that is not meant to be there is found in a local Churchyard, Nikki and her team are diverted to investigate what is determined to be a murder. The only problem ..... the death is 30 years old.
Once the team determines the identity of the body they are led to the small closed in community of Quentin Eaudyke, a forlorn secretive place marred by the tragedy of a series of child abuses in the late 70's and 80's. There they are met with a wall of silence and villagers with ideas stuck in the dark ages. What will it take to get somebody to open up and tell them the truth?
Both teams of DI's Galena and Mercer are also met with a wall of secrecy surrounding Madeline Prospero's death until a friend of Nikki's reveals that Madeline belonged to a secretive drinking club called The Briar Patch. But what else are these women hiding, and how does their membership hamper Nikki's and Gill's investigation? When past deeds connect to the future both teams are left shocked but determined.
Once again this is a superior read, with twisty intertwined plots and a look into the face of true evil. Excitingly paced, this was a remarkably quick read that really did hold me riveted until the very last sentence. An absolute must read for all Nikki Galena fans but equally compelling for new readers of Joy Ellis' work. Highly, highly recommended!
I received an ARC of this novel directly from the author and publisher Joffe Books. I have voluntarily chosen to review the book, and the gifting in no way determines my review/rating, which reflects my honest opinion.
A stunning return to form by Joy Ellis for her 7th novel in the DI Nikki Galena series! This time around it really did feel like coming home, it was that easy and comfortable to fall back into Nikki's world surrounded by the Fens.
The start of our story sees Nikki, Joe and the rest of her team dealing with budget cuts within her station alongside working in tandem with colleague DI Gill Mercer on the brutal death of local businesswoman Madeline Prospero. When a skeletal body that is not meant to be there is found in a local Churchyard, Nikki and her team are diverted to investigate what is determined to be a murder. The only problem ..... the death is 30 years old.
Once the team determines the identity of the body they are led to the small closed in community of Quentin Eaudyke, a forlorn secretive place marred by the tragedy of a series of child abuses in the late 70's and 80's. There they are met with a wall of silence and villagers with ideas stuck in the dark ages. What will it take to get somebody to open up and tell them the truth?
Both teams of DI's Galena and Mercer are also met with a wall of secrecy surrounding Madeline Prospero's death until a friend of Nikki's reveals that Madeline belonged to a secretive drinking club called The Briar Patch. But what else are these women hiding, and how does their membership hamper Nikki's and Gill's investigation? When past deeds connect to the future both teams are left shocked but determined.
Once again this is a superior read, with twisty intertwined plots and a look into the face of true evil. Excitingly paced, this was a remarkably quick read that really did hold me riveted until the very last sentence. An absolute must read for all Nikki Galena fans but equally compelling for new readers of Joy Ellis' work. Highly, highly recommended!
I received an ARC of this novel directly from the author and publisher Joffe Books. I have voluntarily chosen to review the book, and the gifting in no way determines my review/rating, which reflects my honest opinion.
December 6, 2023
4.5
This is a very intricate story with a lot of characters. There were times that I was doing things while listening, and I got lost. I simply rewound and listened again to those passages because I didn’t want to miss a thing. !
This is a very intricate story with a lot of characters. There were times that I was doing things while listening, and I got lost. I simply rewound and listened again to those passages because I didn’t want to miss a thing. !
April 25, 2019
“Buried on the Fens” by Joy Ellis – This is the 7th book in the “DI Nikki Galena” series, and is another good read, with lots happening throughout the storyline.
“ Detective Nikki Galena and her team are investigating the brutal slaying of local businesswoman Madeline Prospero. She was a member of an exclusive and secretive drinking club called The Briar Patch. But they’ve got no suspects and no one is telling them the truth”
The Nikki Galena character is a strong female lead, and this a sound and interesting story.
“ Detective Nikki Galena and her team are investigating the brutal slaying of local businesswoman Madeline Prospero. She was a member of an exclusive and secretive drinking club called The Briar Patch. But they’ve got no suspects and no one is telling them the truth”
The Nikki Galena character is a strong female lead, and this a sound and interesting story.
July 1, 2017
3.5 stars. A skeleton is unearthed from a shallow grave in a churchyard. But this was not an official burial. The victim had been murdered decades ago.
Detective Nikki Galena and her team are investigating the brutal slaying of local businesswoman Madeleine Prospeo. She had been a member of an exclusive and secretive drinking club called The Briar Patch. There are no suspects and no one is telling them the truth. The skeleton leads them to the village of Quintin Eaudyke , a troubled place where in the late seventies and eighties a reign of terror was unleashed on the close-knit population.
The is the seventh book in the DI Nikki Galena series. The body murdered decades ago may be linked to a more recent case. There are a lot of twist and turns thrown in to keep your interest. The pace is steady and the author has a nice style in writing. This book can be read as a standalone.
I would like to thank Joffe Books and the author Joy Ellis for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Detective Nikki Galena and her team are investigating the brutal slaying of local businesswoman Madeleine Prospeo. She had been a member of an exclusive and secretive drinking club called The Briar Patch. There are no suspects and no one is telling them the truth. The skeleton leads them to the village of Quintin Eaudyke , a troubled place where in the late seventies and eighties a reign of terror was unleashed on the close-knit population.
The is the seventh book in the DI Nikki Galena series. The body murdered decades ago may be linked to a more recent case. There are a lot of twist and turns thrown in to keep your interest. The pace is steady and the author has a nice style in writing. This book can be read as a standalone.
I would like to thank Joffe Books and the author Joy Ellis for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 27, 2024
The DI Nikki Galena series is unlikely to ever be mistaken for cosy, but just to be sure, Joy Ellis has amped up the darkness in this 7th instalment with its focus on child sexual abuse among other things. Luckily, at the same time, I found it to also have some surprising touches of humour (the objects regularly appearing out of nowhere to make the temporary Murder Room more comfortable, is one example). Overall a nice balance.
Having read these books at a rate of more than one per month, I can see there is a bit of a formula to them. But I would never describe them as cookie-cutter plots. Ellis has such an inventive brain, there's always something new or unexpected.
Having read these books at a rate of more than one per month, I can see there is a bit of a formula to them. But I would never describe them as cookie-cutter plots. Ellis has such an inventive brain, there's always something new or unexpected.
July 13, 2017
Ever since I read "Their Lost Daughters" earlier this year, I've been a big fan of Joy Ellis. "Buried on the Fens" is the latest in the DI Nikki Galena series, and I loved it just as much. I really enjoy how Ellis can take what seems like a straightforward mystery and creates a twisty, explosive haters that will shock you to your very core.
While the novel is in a series, it can be read as a standalone, no problem.
Nikki Galena is called to a country church, where an old skeleton has been found, obviously the victim of a brutal murder years ago. As Nikki and her team investigate, they're pulled into a 30-year-old mystery which seems to still be affecting people in the modern day. At the same time, another murder is confounding Nikki's team. A woman was murdered and the people that knew her best - all members of a secret drinking society - aren't talking. Everything collides in spectacular fashion as the investigations continue.
The atmosphere of this book is amazing. It's all about secrets and trying to crack through layers of silence and misdirection. Plus, it opens with scenes in a creepy church graveyard on a quiet English marsh. Awesome.
There's no way I saw the ending coming, and I really enjoyed it. It was extremely satisfying. I like how Ellis really blends together good and bad, really making you question who's doing "right" and what exactly constitutes "wrong." The characters aren't all good or all bad. Except the villain in this one - they are uh.....really bad.
I would absolutely read more in this series. It was absolutely great.
While the novel is in a series, it can be read as a standalone, no problem.
Nikki Galena is called to a country church, where an old skeleton has been found, obviously the victim of a brutal murder years ago. As Nikki and her team investigate, they're pulled into a 30-year-old mystery which seems to still be affecting people in the modern day. At the same time, another murder is confounding Nikki's team. A woman was murdered and the people that knew her best - all members of a secret drinking society - aren't talking. Everything collides in spectacular fashion as the investigations continue.
The atmosphere of this book is amazing. It's all about secrets and trying to crack through layers of silence and misdirection. Plus, it opens with scenes in a creepy church graveyard on a quiet English marsh. Awesome.
There's no way I saw the ending coming, and I really enjoyed it. It was extremely satisfying. I like how Ellis really blends together good and bad, really making you question who's doing "right" and what exactly constitutes "wrong." The characters aren't all good or all bad. Except the villain in this one - they are uh.....really bad.
I would absolutely read more in this series. It was absolutely great.
July 7, 2017
I would like to thank Netgalley and Joffe Books for a review copy of Buried on the Fens, the seventh novel to feature Lincolnshire based detectives DI Niki Galena and DS Joe Easter.
Budget cuts are digging deep at Greenhaugh station so Nikki and the team are helping out DI Gill Mercer on her murder enquiry when they get a call about an unauthorised burial in a churchyard. With nothing more than 30 year old bones to go on the team struggle to identify the victim, never mind the perpetrator but once they know it leads them to the village of Quintin Eaudyke, an old mystery and some very closed mouth inhabitants.
I thoroughly enjoyed Buried on the Fens as Ms Ellis knows how to write compelling novels. It probably won't win any prizes in the realism stakes but it certainly holds the attention which is what I look for in a novel. I love the multiple plot strands which, while convoluted but easy to follow, eventually mesh together into a satisfactory solution. It means that there is never a dull moment with developments on every page (or so it seems) and no time for your interest to flag. Great stuff.
The novel will easily stand alone but one of the joys of the novel is the characterisation so to get the best from it I would recommend reading the series in order. After 7 novels it feels like joining old friends when I pick up the series. Nikki and her team have a great working relationship so there is no animosity or bad feeling, what a welcome relief from the more standard fare of backstabbing and careerist officers and it makes for a much more pleasant read. Nikki is like a mother hen making sure her brood are well in body and mind but she is no pushover and surprises herself by giving Joe a few home truths. It is amazing to see how far her personal journey has come over the series and good to see the author ringing the changes subtly to keep it fresh.
I have no hesitation in recommending Buried on the Fens as a great read.
Budget cuts are digging deep at Greenhaugh station so Nikki and the team are helping out DI Gill Mercer on her murder enquiry when they get a call about an unauthorised burial in a churchyard. With nothing more than 30 year old bones to go on the team struggle to identify the victim, never mind the perpetrator but once they know it leads them to the village of Quintin Eaudyke, an old mystery and some very closed mouth inhabitants.
I thoroughly enjoyed Buried on the Fens as Ms Ellis knows how to write compelling novels. It probably won't win any prizes in the realism stakes but it certainly holds the attention which is what I look for in a novel. I love the multiple plot strands which, while convoluted but easy to follow, eventually mesh together into a satisfactory solution. It means that there is never a dull moment with developments on every page (or so it seems) and no time for your interest to flag. Great stuff.
The novel will easily stand alone but one of the joys of the novel is the characterisation so to get the best from it I would recommend reading the series in order. After 7 novels it feels like joining old friends when I pick up the series. Nikki and her team have a great working relationship so there is no animosity or bad feeling, what a welcome relief from the more standard fare of backstabbing and careerist officers and it makes for a much more pleasant read. Nikki is like a mother hen making sure her brood are well in body and mind but she is no pushover and surprises herself by giving Joe a few home truths. It is amazing to see how far her personal journey has come over the series and good to see the author ringing the changes subtly to keep it fresh.
I have no hesitation in recommending Buried on the Fens as a great read.
September 24, 2020
Enjoyed this, the seventh of the series, but not as much as some. It was a bit slow and a confusing mixture of suspects, and I wish Nikki and Joseph would get their act together and stop being "just friends"!
July 13, 2017
My rating: 5 out of 5 stars
This was my first outing with Nikki Galena and her team and I can honestly say I am gutted that I have been missing out on such a gripping series. I intend to rectify this at the first opportunity and read the back list.
Not having read the earlier books I may have missed out on some of Nikki’s history and character building but it didn’t mar my enjoyment of this book. I found I was totally gripped from the first page and just kept reading one more chapter until I reached the dreaded words ‘THE END’ I am now looking for a slot to get my next fix of Nikki and her team.
The story begins with the discovery of a body in a graveyard that shouldn’t be there and so begins an investigation to find out who it is and what happened to him. At the same time we have another investigation into the violent murder of a woman. Resources are stretched as Nikki and her team try to investigate the cold case while still looking for the murderer of the young woman.
There are many twists and turns to the book and the suspense builds gradually to create a very gripping book. I absolutely loved it and will definitely be reading future books by this author.
Many thanks to Joffe Books for the advance copy.
This was my first outing with Nikki Galena and her team and I can honestly say I am gutted that I have been missing out on such a gripping series. I intend to rectify this at the first opportunity and read the back list.
Not having read the earlier books I may have missed out on some of Nikki’s history and character building but it didn’t mar my enjoyment of this book. I found I was totally gripped from the first page and just kept reading one more chapter until I reached the dreaded words ‘THE END’ I am now looking for a slot to get my next fix of Nikki and her team.
The story begins with the discovery of a body in a graveyard that shouldn’t be there and so begins an investigation to find out who it is and what happened to him. At the same time we have another investigation into the violent murder of a woman. Resources are stretched as Nikki and her team try to investigate the cold case while still looking for the murderer of the young woman.
There are many twists and turns to the book and the suspense builds gradually to create a very gripping book. I absolutely loved it and will definitely be reading future books by this author.
Many thanks to Joffe Books for the advance copy.
December 1, 2017
Neither good nor bad, but not really good. There are lots of funny and quirky things that add to the whole story/book. The characters, their way of dealing with what happens - divers, fun and well written. Also the whole set-up, where it's happening, that whole still-in-the-closet society and the general question of rural areas and homosexuality... also very good.
So what's bad? The story. Not believable. Too contrived. Extremely unconvincing when the investigation starts to turn up the truth, far too much of it is simply neither logic nor realistic. No spoilers here, but one example: even in the most rural of settings, with the most inbred and homogenous bunch of villagers: schools and teachers and doctors and relatives would notice something as extreme, as is behind this story. It's annoying, because the stress on how extreme, how far reaching, how totally unexpected and cunning the whole thing is, isn't convincing.... convenient pieces are added but they don't create a whole. Best bit about this book: The wondrous genesis of the new office and furniture popping up there. Beautiful. I'd say: read it, but just don't expect to get hooked on this series.
So what's bad? The story. Not believable. Too contrived. Extremely unconvincing when the investigation starts to turn up the truth, far too much of it is simply neither logic nor realistic. No spoilers here, but one example: even in the most rural of settings, with the most inbred and homogenous bunch of villagers: schools and teachers and doctors and relatives would notice something as extreme, as is behind this story. It's annoying, because the stress on how extreme, how far reaching, how totally unexpected and cunning the whole thing is, isn't convincing.... convenient pieces are added but they don't create a whole. Best bit about this book: The wondrous genesis of the new office and furniture popping up there. Beautiful. I'd say: read it, but just don't expect to get hooked on this series.
October 3, 2019
This is another novel in the series with DI Nikki Galena and Sergeant Joseph Easter as the lead characters. This one is set within the Greenborough, a fictitious Fenland town's gay community and in particular focuses on the Briar Patch Club and the murders of two of its members, this links to historic child abuse in a nearby Fenland village. The usual characters fill DI Galena's team and as the serial killer's activities spread so the team links with that of DI Gill Miller, although this team never appears to achieve much.
The story has a heavy emphasis on the gay community which seems to have taken over the town. This gave the story a rather unrealistic feel. The plot itself has a number of tenuous links as does the progress of the investigation which came to an abrupt conclusion. Not as good as previous stories in the series. Maybe I'll stop here.
The story has a heavy emphasis on the gay community which seems to have taken over the town. This gave the story a rather unrealistic feel. The plot itself has a number of tenuous links as does the progress of the investigation which came to an abrupt conclusion. Not as good as previous stories in the series. Maybe I'll stop here.
June 29, 2017
Buried on the Fens. Joy Ellis' Nikki Galena series continues to keep me engrossed. An unofficial body is discovered in a cemetery, and a decades old murder appears to be entwined with a more recent one.
Initially, the team believes they are looking at two separate cases, and the recent murder of a well-liked businesswoman must take precedence. Nikki finds the older murder a fascinating curiosity, but as both investigations proceed, connections are established.
As usual, Ellis' novel works perfectly well as a standalone. Now, I look forward to the next in either the Nikki Galena or the Rowan Jackson series!
NetGalley/Joffe Books
Police Procedural. July 10, 2017.
Initially, the team believes they are looking at two separate cases, and the recent murder of a well-liked businesswoman must take precedence. Nikki finds the older murder a fascinating curiosity, but as both investigations proceed, connections are established.
As usual, Ellis' novel works perfectly well as a standalone. Now, I look forward to the next in either the Nikki Galena or the Rowan Jackson series!
NetGalley/Joffe Books
Police Procedural. July 10, 2017.
July 11, 2017
All hail Galena, and shout for Joy?
Once more a 5 star rating for Nikki and Joseph and their team, I really enjoy trying to work out who the culprit is but once more Joy had me baffled to the end. The biggest problem is at about midnight my better half is calling for lights out and I want to carry on reading. I especially liked the piece where Vonnie adopts the homeless dog, only a dog lover could explain the sheer amount of love that these animals give so willingly.
With a bit of luck someone in Government will read this series and come to realise that you can only cut back so far before the Police cease to function at all.
Once more a 5 star rating for Nikki and Joseph and their team, I really enjoy trying to work out who the culprit is but once more Joy had me baffled to the end. The biggest problem is at about midnight my better half is calling for lights out and I want to carry on reading. I especially liked the piece where Vonnie adopts the homeless dog, only a dog lover could explain the sheer amount of love that these animals give so willingly.
With a bit of luck someone in Government will read this series and come to realise that you can only cut back so far before the Police cease to function at all.
July 9, 2017
Gripping
I got straight into this book. the story really pulls you in. It's actually the first book i have read by this author but had no trouble getting to know old and new characters. If you love crime thrillers then you will love this. I an certainly going to catch up on all the others
I got straight into this book. the story really pulls you in. It's actually the first book i have read by this author but had no trouble getting to know old and new characters. If you love crime thrillers then you will love this. I an certainly going to catch up on all the others
August 1, 2025
*Hoodwinked*
DI Nikki Galena, who has grown up around the Fens, is shocked to learn about a secret club called The Briar Patch. This exclusive drinking club is for mostly women in high-profile jobs, such as judges and heads of police. The majority are in same-sex relationships, with a few heterosexuals. They have deliberately kept their sexuality hidden, fearing it could jeopardise their standing in the workplace or public perception.
When a brutal murder occurs, someone close to the victim reveals the club’s existence and provides Nikki with a list of members that makes her eyes pop.
As Nikki delves deeper into the case history, she uncovers shocking discoveries that date back to the 1970s. She realises that people are afraid to speak up, fearing the potential consequences.
Nikki and her team are tasked with solving both cold and current cases, hoping to find a link between the murders and keeping the members of the Briar Patch safe.
This is another gripping instalment in the series.
DI Nikki Galena, who has grown up around the Fens, is shocked to learn about a secret club called The Briar Patch. This exclusive drinking club is for mostly women in high-profile jobs, such as judges and heads of police. The majority are in same-sex relationships, with a few heterosexuals. They have deliberately kept their sexuality hidden, fearing it could jeopardise their standing in the workplace or public perception.
When a brutal murder occurs, someone close to the victim reveals the club’s existence and provides Nikki with a list of members that makes her eyes pop.
As Nikki delves deeper into the case history, she uncovers shocking discoveries that date back to the 1970s. She realises that people are afraid to speak up, fearing the potential consequences.
Nikki and her team are tasked with solving both cold and current cases, hoping to find a link between the murders and keeping the members of the Briar Patch safe.
This is another gripping instalment in the series.
August 8, 2024
Buried on the Fens by Joy Ellis is the 7th book in the D.I. Nikki Galena mystery series. D.I Nikki Galena and her team are investigating the brutal murder of a local business woman linked to an exclusive female club as well as the discovery of a skeleton in a churchyard killed many years earlier. Another brilliant thriller in the series. The best part is the way the team works together as well as getting to know new members, and I especially like the character profiles included at the end. Sergeant Joseph Easter has to deal with his ex-wife in this book and I am hoping we have seen the last of her. A captivating and gripping mystery that I enjoyed very much.
October 3, 2022
3.5 stars
This is a much darker turn (animal- and children - harm, repeated sexual violence, and other triggers). The personal subplot this time is more tiring and a bit artificial than interesting. Still, this is a readable addition to a series I enjoy. Glad to move on from this one.
This is a much darker turn (animal- and children - harm, repeated sexual violence, and other triggers). The personal subplot this time is more tiring and a bit artificial than interesting. Still, this is a readable addition to a series I enjoy. Glad to move on from this one.
December 22, 2022
If you can suspend belief that all the murderers , psychopaths etc all congregate on the Fend, its a good series.
July 8, 2017
4 and 1 / 2 stars
DI Nikki Galena and her team is busy working the case of Madeline Prospero when they get a call about a body in a graveyard at a local church. Assuming it was a fluke Nikki responds and discovers from the condition of the body that it is not a scheduled burial. Indeed, it is murder. The autopsy shows that he has been buried there for about thirty years. An ornate and engraved wedding band is the only clue to his identity.
Meanwhile, they are getting nowhere on the Madeline Prospero case. It seems she was a member of a local club called The Briar Patch and was viciously beaten to death.
After taking the ring to a jeweler, Nikki learns more about its origins. This leads the team to the tiny village of Quintin Eaudyke. This is a village where hatred breeds secrets and no one is talking about the dead man, save for the old town doctor. It seems that over thirty years ago, the place was the scene of some horrific crimes against children. Everyone in town thought that the murdered man was guilty and later drowned in the river. His body was never found. But Nikki and her team know better.
Another woman who is related to the Briar Patch is brutally murdered and the problem is growing. What does someone have against the members of this club? With the assistance of Spooky, a brilliant computer technician and a friend of Nikki’s, they make some progress.
As the investigation goes on Nikki and her team discover a link between the two cases. A suspect comes into view. The team feels more and more strongly that their suspect is the murderer. But the suspect is living under an assumed name and they can’t locate any pictures of them to do age progression to see what they look like now. They re-interview witnesses trying to find out what the murderer looks like now. They go hither and thither.
And then a breakthrough occurs. They zero in on the suspect. The tension mounts and the pace of the story speeds up. And it all ends with an exciting car chase on the fens.
This is an extremely well written and plotted novel. The tension starts immediately and builds throughout the story. I like the major characters and the team gets along well. I’ve read all of the Nikki Galena novels and I like this one the best. Ms. Ellis has out done herself! I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
I want to thank NetGalley and Joffe Books for forwarding to me a copy of this great book for me to read.
DI Nikki Galena and her team is busy working the case of Madeline Prospero when they get a call about a body in a graveyard at a local church. Assuming it was a fluke Nikki responds and discovers from the condition of the body that it is not a scheduled burial. Indeed, it is murder. The autopsy shows that he has been buried there for about thirty years. An ornate and engraved wedding band is the only clue to his identity.
Meanwhile, they are getting nowhere on the Madeline Prospero case. It seems she was a member of a local club called The Briar Patch and was viciously beaten to death.
After taking the ring to a jeweler, Nikki learns more about its origins. This leads the team to the tiny village of Quintin Eaudyke. This is a village where hatred breeds secrets and no one is talking about the dead man, save for the old town doctor. It seems that over thirty years ago, the place was the scene of some horrific crimes against children. Everyone in town thought that the murdered man was guilty and later drowned in the river. His body was never found. But Nikki and her team know better.
Another woman who is related to the Briar Patch is brutally murdered and the problem is growing. What does someone have against the members of this club? With the assistance of Spooky, a brilliant computer technician and a friend of Nikki’s, they make some progress.
As the investigation goes on Nikki and her team discover a link between the two cases. A suspect comes into view. The team feels more and more strongly that their suspect is the murderer. But the suspect is living under an assumed name and they can’t locate any pictures of them to do age progression to see what they look like now. They re-interview witnesses trying to find out what the murderer looks like now. They go hither and thither.
And then a breakthrough occurs. They zero in on the suspect. The tension mounts and the pace of the story speeds up. And it all ends with an exciting car chase on the fens.
This is an extremely well written and plotted novel. The tension starts immediately and builds throughout the story. I like the major characters and the team gets along well. I’ve read all of the Nikki Galena novels and I like this one the best. Ms. Ellis has out done herself! I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
I want to thank NetGalley and Joffe Books for forwarding to me a copy of this great book for me to read.
July 6, 2017
Another great read....
I always enjoy reading Joy Ellis novels, especially from the Nikka Galena series as they are both exciting and have a great deal of character and location interest for me.
This one was no exception, with a great story which really kept me guessing on more or less every new chapter. It was one of those crime novels where you are constantly trying to work out who the murderer could possibly be and just as you think you have worked it out you realise that it couldn’t possibly have been that person. Even when it was finally revealed who the killer actually was we were still no further forward until the very end when everything slotted into place.
I was sent this novel by Joffee Books as an advance copy so that I could write a review and I am pleased to say that I certainly did enjoy reading this and to my amazement I think I have probably beaten my own record at the speed in which I finished it which was just 5 days. It is the kind of book that keeps you wanting more and every time I reached the end of a chapter I just felt I had to read on to find out what was going to happen next.
Unfortunately, although I have read several previous novels in this series I had not quite read them all leading up to this one, so there were a few events that had transpired over the course of the series that I was not aware of. Fortunately, I don’t feel that by reading this one it has spoilt any of the previous books for me so will now have to set too and catch-up on the series before number 8 is available as I certainly intend to continue with “The Fens” series.
I highly recommend this book – you will not be disappointed.
I always enjoy reading Joy Ellis novels, especially from the Nikka Galena series as they are both exciting and have a great deal of character and location interest for me.
This one was no exception, with a great story which really kept me guessing on more or less every new chapter. It was one of those crime novels where you are constantly trying to work out who the murderer could possibly be and just as you think you have worked it out you realise that it couldn’t possibly have been that person. Even when it was finally revealed who the killer actually was we were still no further forward until the very end when everything slotted into place.
I was sent this novel by Joffee Books as an advance copy so that I could write a review and I am pleased to say that I certainly did enjoy reading this and to my amazement I think I have probably beaten my own record at the speed in which I finished it which was just 5 days. It is the kind of book that keeps you wanting more and every time I reached the end of a chapter I just felt I had to read on to find out what was going to happen next.
Unfortunately, although I have read several previous novels in this series I had not quite read them all leading up to this one, so there were a few events that had transpired over the course of the series that I was not aware of. Fortunately, I don’t feel that by reading this one it has spoilt any of the previous books for me so will now have to set too and catch-up on the series before number 8 is available as I certainly intend to continue with “The Fens” series.
I highly recommend this book – you will not be disappointed.
July 15, 2017
I liked it (3 star). This book was a nice surprise. It was listed in one of those emails you get with free and cheap books. As I recall, it was only 99 cents so I thought, why not! I read the first few pages in the sample and liked the writer's style. The characters were engaging and the story was intriguing. I read it pretty quickly and enjoyed it. I thought I had it figured out, but....
SPOILER
the perpetrator was a character that we saw/heard about only peripherally, which I thought was a bit of an easy way out, no hints or any interactions (that I can recall) to even consider that person. That "tie-up" to the mystery -- not being able to look back and see hints that were given along the way -- is the difference between an established, top-tier writer and the rest. That being said, the price was right and it was a good story, so I WILL try another. I think this one was the last in the series, which is starting from the wrong end... ;-).... but I'll give the series another go.
SPOILER
the perpetrator was a character that we saw/heard about only peripherally, which I thought was a bit of an easy way out, no hints or any interactions (that I can recall) to even consider that person. That "tie-up" to the mystery -- not being able to look back and see hints that were given along the way -- is the difference between an established, top-tier writer and the rest. That being said, the price was right and it was a good story, so I WILL try another. I think this one was the last in the series, which is starting from the wrong end... ;-).... but I'll give the series another go.
January 5, 2018
Buried on the Fens is the seventh in the Fens series by Joy Ellis featuring DI Nikki Galena and DS Joseph Easter. I have to admit to being biased as I have been a fan right from the start. Although the novels can be read in isolation, they make more sense if read in order.
This is a complex story that eventually links two recent murders with a skeleton unofficially buried in a churchyard many years before. Nikki’s team have to break through a wall of silence to reach the truth. My only criticism is the very large number of characters which I found quite confusing at times, otherwise I would have given it five stars.
Joy paints a vivid picture of the Fens and the difficulties involved in policing such a vast landscape. Her main characters are realistically written with their troubled pasts but they work well together as a team and support each other. I look forward to reading the next story very soon.
Many thanks to Joffe Books for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is a complex story that eventually links two recent murders with a skeleton unofficially buried in a churchyard many years before. Nikki’s team have to break through a wall of silence to reach the truth. My only criticism is the very large number of characters which I found quite confusing at times, otherwise I would have given it five stars.
Joy paints a vivid picture of the Fens and the difficulties involved in policing such a vast landscape. Her main characters are realistically written with their troubled pasts but they work well together as a team and support each other. I look forward to reading the next story very soon.
Many thanks to Joffe Books for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 8, 2021
3.5 stars.
I read another reviewer who commented that the author has the tendency to link cases together. I do see the pattern but I think that may just be the way the author likes to craft her stories.
Nevertheless, I did admire how she was able to link a decades old buried skeleton in a church yard to a couple of present day murders. There were a lot of suspects and it made me wonder whether the author was herself unsure on who the killer should be? Anyway, it had me guessing until the very end.
Another interesting case. And I'm glad Joseph's issue with the ex-wife seems to be resolved.
I read another reviewer who commented that the author has the tendency to link cases together. I do see the pattern but I think that may just be the way the author likes to craft her stories.
Nevertheless, I did admire how she was able to link a decades old buried skeleton in a church yard to a couple of present day murders. There were a lot of suspects and it made me wonder whether the author was herself unsure on who the killer should be? Anyway, it had me guessing until the very end.
Another interesting case. And I'm glad Joseph's issue with the ex-wife seems to be resolved.
October 27, 2022
I’ve read a couple now of this series and I love Nikki and her team. Each character is wonderfully created. There’s a lot on here about the LGBTQI+ community and the fear of coming out. It’s not something I’ve had to deal with but it feels like it’s been handled sensitively and covers a range of lesbian women’s viewpoint (just do it, fear of losing job etc).
There’s a few really good twists especially around the killer and motives. I loved how it was all resolved although with a bit of sadness around it too (no spoilers 😊 ) I’ve dipped into this series now and again but I really do need to go back and finish all the rest
There’s a few really good twists especially around the killer and motives. I loved how it was all resolved although with a bit of sadness around it too (no spoilers 😊 ) I’ve dipped into this series now and again but I really do need to go back and finish all the rest
July 13, 2017
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Full of twists and turns, this is a crime thriller that will keep you turning the pages until the heart-stopping ending. Having read the book I have to fully agree!! I loved Nikki as the main character and the story flowed brilliantly around her. She is a great character and after reading this book I definitely want to read the previous ones!! For me, Joy is now an author to watch! Loved it – 5 stars from me!!!
Full of twists and turns, this is a crime thriller that will keep you turning the pages until the heart-stopping ending. Having read the book I have to fully agree!! I loved Nikki as the main character and the story flowed brilliantly around her. She is a great character and after reading this book I definitely want to read the previous ones!! For me, Joy is now an author to watch! Loved it – 5 stars from me!!!
July 16, 2019
2.5 - This was my first disappointment with this series. The topic was good and different but the story line felt choppy. Also growing tired of the special "friendship" between the main characters. I wish something would happen or it just be forgotten. I will continue the series but hope this was an anomaly.
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