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DI Harry Evans #2
I Know Your Secret
DI Harry Evans - Book 2
“What would you do if your most intimate secrets got into the wrong hands?”
Set in modern day Cumbria, I Know Your Secret is a police thriller in which a priest is found crucified to the stone floor of his church. Fearing more attacks on the clergy, DI John Campbell and his team of misfits race to find the killer before he strikes again.
Meanwhile, DI Harry Evans, spends his days attending the trial of his wife’s rapist and his nights interfering in the investigation.
Can they catch the killer before he strikes again?
Recommendations for Graham SmithPeter James – Author of the RoyGrace series
“…a talented story-teller.”
Zoe Sharp –Author of the Charlie Foxnovels
“...fast-paced andintriguing. It kept me turning the pages to the end.”
Matt Hilton – Author of the JoeHunter novels
“… Graham Smith is another talent to watch for…”
Richard Godwin – Author of ApostleRising, Mr Glamour and One Lost Summer
“Smith is a writer with astrong voice who catches the attention and holds it… sharp dialogue and tightplotting…”
Sheila Quigley - Author of TheSeahills series and the Holy Island trilogy
“Graham Smith is not just a rising star,but a shooting star.”
Joseph Finder - New York Timesbestseller
“Smith's anti-hero,Detective Inspector Evans, is the kind of cop we don't see any more, a man moreinterested in justice than the law.”
304 pages, Paperback
First published October 17, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
October 8, 2016
This is the first book I have read by Graham, it pulls you in by the fingertips and leaves you wanting to leave with your nails still intact! Some grisly descriptive writing, not recommended reading material while eating!
A murdered priest essentially nail gun splattered across the church floor is a pretty good entrance for any book. The team of detectives pulled in to find the killer are a motley crew, fabulously down to earth with the classic mawkish humour of the profession. This made it such a natural feeling story. None of the poncy ‘politically correctness’ of some books .. real, raw, ‘pick up the stiff’ kind of narrative.
While DI Harry is due for retirement his role is in the courtroom enduring the hearing of the man who effectively robbed him of his wife but he keeps his hand in with the detective side of things whenever possible. Whilst John is keen to become known as the ‘Guv’ but to earn any respect from the team he has a murder to solve.
The story goes off on several tangents, the murder, blackmail, a ‘model’ claiming rape plenty of interweaving plots that keep you on your toes and concentration is needed to keep up.
The subtle humour amused me .. my favourite being the name of the unfortunate three-legged dog .. you will have to read to find out.
A great book for any police thriller fans, I will be sure to check out the others available.
Many thanks to the author, publishers and Noelle for my copy in exchange for an honest opinion.
A murdered priest essentially nail gun splattered across the church floor is a pretty good entrance for any book. The team of detectives pulled in to find the killer are a motley crew, fabulously down to earth with the classic mawkish humour of the profession. This made it such a natural feeling story. None of the poncy ‘politically correctness’ of some books .. real, raw, ‘pick up the stiff’ kind of narrative.
While DI Harry is due for retirement his role is in the courtroom enduring the hearing of the man who effectively robbed him of his wife but he keeps his hand in with the detective side of things whenever possible. Whilst John is keen to become known as the ‘Guv’ but to earn any respect from the team he has a murder to solve.
The story goes off on several tangents, the murder, blackmail, a ‘model’ claiming rape plenty of interweaving plots that keep you on your toes and concentration is needed to keep up.
The subtle humour amused me .. my favourite being the name of the unfortunate three-legged dog .. you will have to read to find out.
A great book for any police thriller fans, I will be sure to check out the others available.
Many thanks to the author, publishers and Noelle for my copy in exchange for an honest opinion.
October 2, 2016
Having read and enjoyed 'Snatched from Home' and 'Matching the Evidence' by Graham Smith - both brilliant reads - I couldn't wait for the next DI Harry Evans instalment to come along. Now that I've read it, I can honestly say that this book is absolutely the author's best to date.
This book picks up at exactly the same point where MtE leaves us, however it can very well be read as a standalone. It's DI Evans' hardest week ever. Not only it's his last week on the force after thirty years' service, it is also the week in which the man responsible for his wife's death is taken to court to stand trial.
At the Major Crimes Team, with Evans' imminent retirement, DI Campbell has to prove his worth as his replacement. A challenge, in the form of a gruesome murder case is soon thrown at him to investigate and solve. A priest is found crucified on the stone floor of his church. Who would do such a horrific thing to a man of God, a priest who's done nothing but good in his life? But you don't get crucified for nothing, no? Suspecting a serial killer is on the loose, Campbell and his team find themselves in a race against time to try and stop this mad person.
Meanwhile someone is blackmailing people, threatening to expose their most intimate secrets if they don't pay weekly settlements. But who is this person? Why are they doing this? And above all, how are they finding out about their victims' secrets?
Well, Graham Smith has once again taken me on a fast-paced, heart-pumping rollercoaster ride. Even though there were multiple storylines developing at the same time, I never felt confused. On the contrary, the more I read and the more the various story threads began to be skilfully interwoven together, the more I became intrigued to a point where I couldn't stop reading.
The suspense never stops in this book. I liked the way in which the author continuously shifts from one tense storyline to another, all the time keeping the readers on their toes, biting their nails. On one hand we have Campbell and the team (with Evan's input) trying to solve the various cases, going through endless lists of possible suspects to the various crimes, and on the other we have Evans inside the courtroom facing his wife's rapist, hearing the attorneys' speeches, hoping justice is served and reliving the horror Janet went through at the hands of this callous individual. The court scenes felt so real. It was as if I was there in the courtroom watching the proceedings. Those scenes are very emotional and made me think of John Grisham's books - yes, they're that good!
Due to the trial and the imminent kick up his backside, in this book Evans is somewhat more subdued, and his rude, bossy character is less evident than it was in Snatched, giving way to a softer, more gentle side to his character. Well, though sometimes irritating, I actually prefer the rough, brusque DI Evans I met in Snatched. I really hope Mr Smith keeps Evans (the ill-mannered one!) at play in his future books. What will happen now that his time on the force is up? Well we might have a hint in the last part of this book.
Jam-packed with intriguing cases and storylines, fantastic characters, various OMG moments and twists and turns, this book is simply brilliant and it kept me hooked to my kindle from start to finish. Highly recommended!
With thanks to the author and Caffeine Nights Publishing for an ARC of this book.
This book picks up at exactly the same point where MtE leaves us, however it can very well be read as a standalone. It's DI Evans' hardest week ever. Not only it's his last week on the force after thirty years' service, it is also the week in which the man responsible for his wife's death is taken to court to stand trial.
At the Major Crimes Team, with Evans' imminent retirement, DI Campbell has to prove his worth as his replacement. A challenge, in the form of a gruesome murder case is soon thrown at him to investigate and solve. A priest is found crucified on the stone floor of his church. Who would do such a horrific thing to a man of God, a priest who's done nothing but good in his life? But you don't get crucified for nothing, no? Suspecting a serial killer is on the loose, Campbell and his team find themselves in a race against time to try and stop this mad person.
Meanwhile someone is blackmailing people, threatening to expose their most intimate secrets if they don't pay weekly settlements. But who is this person? Why are they doing this? And above all, how are they finding out about their victims' secrets?
Well, Graham Smith has once again taken me on a fast-paced, heart-pumping rollercoaster ride. Even though there were multiple storylines developing at the same time, I never felt confused. On the contrary, the more I read and the more the various story threads began to be skilfully interwoven together, the more I became intrigued to a point where I couldn't stop reading.
The suspense never stops in this book. I liked the way in which the author continuously shifts from one tense storyline to another, all the time keeping the readers on their toes, biting their nails. On one hand we have Campbell and the team (with Evan's input) trying to solve the various cases, going through endless lists of possible suspects to the various crimes, and on the other we have Evans inside the courtroom facing his wife's rapist, hearing the attorneys' speeches, hoping justice is served and reliving the horror Janet went through at the hands of this callous individual. The court scenes felt so real. It was as if I was there in the courtroom watching the proceedings. Those scenes are very emotional and made me think of John Grisham's books - yes, they're that good!
Due to the trial and the imminent kick up his backside, in this book Evans is somewhat more subdued, and his rude, bossy character is less evident than it was in Snatched, giving way to a softer, more gentle side to his character. Well, though sometimes irritating, I actually prefer the rough, brusque DI Evans I met in Snatched. I really hope Mr Smith keeps Evans (the ill-mannered one!) at play in his future books. What will happen now that his time on the force is up? Well we might have a hint in the last part of this book.
Jam-packed with intriguing cases and storylines, fantastic characters, various OMG moments and twists and turns, this book is simply brilliant and it kept me hooked to my kindle from start to finish. Highly recommended!
With thanks to the author and Caffeine Nights Publishing for an ARC of this book.
September 19, 2016
This was a fast paced read and it drags you screaming slap bang right into the plot. You cannot fail to kick start your amatuer detective skills trying to solve the crimes with the clues given but what a merry dance those clues take you on. A solid plot with the brutal murder of a priest kicking it all off and a very clever blackmail subplot, this is going to have you reeling in your comfy reading seat folks! Secrets and lies and the tangled web they weave are all themes in this book and like a spider, I Know Your Secret is going to snare you right in its web!
Harry Evans, what can I say…despite the fact that I know I shouldn’t – I love his unorthodox ways; he angers me at time as he is selfish but I can understand why he does what he does and i am most definitely a #TeamEvans kinda gal! How can I possibly wait for the next installment Graham!!!
Campbell always strikes me as a bit of a cold fish – but in IKYS his character is becoming more rounded and his story is unfolding and I think I might begin to warm to him – but will he ever get the same loyalty as Evans? That remains to be seen! Lauren – she intrigues me and there is much more to her than meets the eye (and she is known to reveal a lot as she is not adverse to using her female charms to put suspects on the backfoot – but make no mistake she is no airhead that’s for sure!)
But you must watch out for “Shouty Joe” – I love this character and in this book he gives Evans the voice that he cannot share; every city has a Shouty Joe – the one who is shunned for their outward appearance yet is insightful, elegant and intelligent. Shouty Joe is a must character for this series Graham, #justsayin
I Know Your Secret hooked me in right from the very start, love the fact that the books follow on seamlessly from the last one – with a week’s gap not a year – the reader gets a real sense of continuity; When reading Graham’s books he has a real knack of making me feel as though I am part of the team, his plot, character development and settings gives me a real feeling of being there with the team; I have real feelings of empathy for the characters and they want me to invest my time in them – that is a sure fire winner for me!
Harry Evans, what can I say…despite the fact that I know I shouldn’t – I love his unorthodox ways; he angers me at time as he is selfish but I can understand why he does what he does and i am most definitely a #TeamEvans kinda gal! How can I possibly wait for the next installment Graham!!!
Campbell always strikes me as a bit of a cold fish – but in IKYS his character is becoming more rounded and his story is unfolding and I think I might begin to warm to him – but will he ever get the same loyalty as Evans? That remains to be seen! Lauren – she intrigues me and there is much more to her than meets the eye (and she is known to reveal a lot as she is not adverse to using her female charms to put suspects on the backfoot – but make no mistake she is no airhead that’s for sure!)
But you must watch out for “Shouty Joe” – I love this character and in this book he gives Evans the voice that he cannot share; every city has a Shouty Joe – the one who is shunned for their outward appearance yet is insightful, elegant and intelligent. Shouty Joe is a must character for this series Graham, #justsayin
I Know Your Secret hooked me in right from the very start, love the fact that the books follow on seamlessly from the last one – with a week’s gap not a year – the reader gets a real sense of continuity; When reading Graham’s books he has a real knack of making me feel as though I am part of the team, his plot, character development and settings gives me a real feeling of being there with the team; I have real feelings of empathy for the characters and they want me to invest my time in them – that is a sure fire winner for me!
October 7, 2016
After the recent novella Matching the Evidence Major Crimes Team Vol 2 I was thrilled to know that there wasn’t too much time to waiting for the next Harry Evans book, a follow up to Snatched From Home. And I have to say that this is Graham Smith’s best to date! I Know Your Secret grabs the reader from the very first page and then keeps hold of you until that absolutely brilliantly plotted ending.
This team has its fair share of very full-on characters, some I love, some I tolerate but most I wouldn’t want to get on the wrong side of! DI Campbell has a lot of reputation to build back up and he’s hoping the case of a murdered priest will be solved quickly and efficiently. After all he’s missing the first few important days of baby Alan’s life to make his case. Harry is facing his wife’s rapist in court and hoping that justice will be done but he can’t help but get involved in the team’s ongoing cases during his evenings. And Lauren? If I say I didn’t like her will I be accused of jealousy?! She knows how to do her job but I wouldn’t want to work with her! The case of the murdered priest runs alongside a blackmailer who is emailing people with their secrets and asking for weekly “donations” to make sure those indiscretions stay secret! I think the twisty plot details were just brilliant, I was engaged with the team the whole way through and the ending…..well, let’s just say that I didn’t see THAT coming! And those last few pages made me look at Harry Evans very differently indeed!
If you’re looking for a gritty and realistic British police thriller then Graham Smith’s latest has to be top of your wishlist. It can be read as a standalone but make sure you do check out the other books featuring The Major Crimes Team. You can find one of my reviews below.
Thanks to Caffeine Nights and the author for my review copy
This team has its fair share of very full-on characters, some I love, some I tolerate but most I wouldn’t want to get on the wrong side of! DI Campbell has a lot of reputation to build back up and he’s hoping the case of a murdered priest will be solved quickly and efficiently. After all he’s missing the first few important days of baby Alan’s life to make his case. Harry is facing his wife’s rapist in court and hoping that justice will be done but he can’t help but get involved in the team’s ongoing cases during his evenings. And Lauren? If I say I didn’t like her will I be accused of jealousy?! She knows how to do her job but I wouldn’t want to work with her! The case of the murdered priest runs alongside a blackmailer who is emailing people with their secrets and asking for weekly “donations” to make sure those indiscretions stay secret! I think the twisty plot details were just brilliant, I was engaged with the team the whole way through and the ending…..well, let’s just say that I didn’t see THAT coming! And those last few pages made me look at Harry Evans very differently indeed!
If you’re looking for a gritty and realistic British police thriller then Graham Smith’s latest has to be top of your wishlist. It can be read as a standalone but make sure you do check out the other books featuring The Major Crimes Team. You can find one of my reviews below.
Thanks to Caffeine Nights and the author for my review copy
September 20, 2016
This book was very good . I love the way DI Harry Evans works . An emotional story as well as a cliffhanger working out the why's and wherefores off the cases the squad is working on . Be careful of who you share your secrets with . I was given an arc copy of this in return for a review . 5 massive stars from me
September 15, 2016
I was given an ARC of this book by Caffeine Nights Publishing and the author, in exchange for an honest review. I was lucky enough to first set my eyes on this book back in December 2015 as a beta reader. I adored it then….I love it even more now!
The DI Harry Evans series is set in Cumbria and who knew such an idyllic landscape was home to some of the most unsavoury characters!? Well, it is in Mr Smith’s mind! Various themes are cleverly placed within the depths of this story and include blackmail…with a wee bit of a twist; loss; grief; survival; retribution; justice, revelations and fear – fear of being caught out as well as the fear of facing one’s demons. That is just some of what you will find in this book!
The plot is …well…OMFG….su-bloody-perb! In his usual style, the author opens the story with a #KillerHook and once he has you…he just won’t let go! There is so much going on but it was delivered at the perfect pace with a build up to the absolutely mind-blowing BOOMS! And there-are-booms, #bookjunkies! Proper, lump in the throat, heart-racing, blood-pumping booms which left me an absolute emotional wreck at times! What are you playing at, Mr Smith!?
I have said it before, but I will say it again…Mr Smith’s talent for description and narrative placed me inside the mind, body and soul of these characters. I could just about visualise the scenes through the eyes of the characters and feel the emotions as if they were a part of me! Wow! Wow! Wow!
The Major Crimes Team are out doing what they do best, and I have an affection for this team and each character. However, in this book, I want to talk about the four that really caught my attention.
DI Campbell is out to prove himself in this book, after being bollocked by the higher ups for what happened in the last book, Snatched From Home. (Read it- it is SO worth it!) There is just something about Campbell that I do not like – but sometimes, he catches me off guard and I think maybe….just maybe, he is ok! This is another of Mr Smith’s talents – he likes to mess with the readers mind…and damn, he does a good job of it!
Shouty Joe– Oh-my-giddy-aunt! LOVED this guy! Why? Because he was Harry’s voice in the Court scenes. He said exactly what Harry wanted to say, but couldn’t and he did an exceptional job in making the reader take notice. His parts were small, but his presence was mighty! There may have been a few “Hell Yeah’s” escaping from my lips as he spoke…..#JustSaying!
I am not going to say much about the antagonist as I do not want to give anything away – the crime committed had consequences this person could not have imagined and a twist or two which blew me away!
And finally….*sigh* ….the man himself, DI Harry Evans – well what can I say – he faces his wife’s rapist and the man who he believes ultimately led to her death and the death of his child, in a court case that had me on the edge of my friggin seat! This part of the story tugged…no ripped at my heartstrings because we finally see Harry at his most vulnerable – jaysus, just thinking about it and I am tearing up again!! FFS, Mr Smith! You really captured the emotions beautifully! But when it is all over, another side to Harry is revealed …..and it is not what I was expecting at all! #NoSpoilers!
The second in the #DIHarryEvans series ends with a BANG and really makes the reader question everything they know…or think they know, so far in the series! What the hell are you trying to do to us readers, Mr Smith!? Eeeeeeek! I am now desperate for the next novella and book 3, and I am gutted that it will be another year before I can find out what the hell is next for Harry and the Major Crimes Team! Can’t you write any faster? *bats eyelashes* ~ pretty please!?
Did I enjoy this book? No…I bloody LOVED it!! Do I recommend this book to readers? Hell Yeah! I do! I do! I do!! Each book can be read on its own, but I recommend you download and enjoy the WHOLE series….because it bloody well rocks! Get clicking peeps! Seriously!!
The DI Harry Evans series is set in Cumbria and who knew such an idyllic landscape was home to some of the most unsavoury characters!? Well, it is in Mr Smith’s mind! Various themes are cleverly placed within the depths of this story and include blackmail…with a wee bit of a twist; loss; grief; survival; retribution; justice, revelations and fear – fear of being caught out as well as the fear of facing one’s demons. That is just some of what you will find in this book!
The plot is …well…OMFG….su-bloody-perb! In his usual style, the author opens the story with a #KillerHook and once he has you…he just won’t let go! There is so much going on but it was delivered at the perfect pace with a build up to the absolutely mind-blowing BOOMS! And there-are-booms, #bookjunkies! Proper, lump in the throat, heart-racing, blood-pumping booms which left me an absolute emotional wreck at times! What are you playing at, Mr Smith!?
I have said it before, but I will say it again…Mr Smith’s talent for description and narrative placed me inside the mind, body and soul of these characters. I could just about visualise the scenes through the eyes of the characters and feel the emotions as if they were a part of me! Wow! Wow! Wow!
The Major Crimes Team are out doing what they do best, and I have an affection for this team and each character. However, in this book, I want to talk about the four that really caught my attention.
DI Campbell is out to prove himself in this book, after being bollocked by the higher ups for what happened in the last book, Snatched From Home. (Read it- it is SO worth it!) There is just something about Campbell that I do not like – but sometimes, he catches me off guard and I think maybe….just maybe, he is ok! This is another of Mr Smith’s talents – he likes to mess with the readers mind…and damn, he does a good job of it!
Shouty Joe– Oh-my-giddy-aunt! LOVED this guy! Why? Because he was Harry’s voice in the Court scenes. He said exactly what Harry wanted to say, but couldn’t and he did an exceptional job in making the reader take notice. His parts were small, but his presence was mighty! There may have been a few “Hell Yeah’s” escaping from my lips as he spoke…..#JustSaying!
I am not going to say much about the antagonist as I do not want to give anything away – the crime committed had consequences this person could not have imagined and a twist or two which blew me away!
And finally….*sigh* ….the man himself, DI Harry Evans – well what can I say – he faces his wife’s rapist and the man who he believes ultimately led to her death and the death of his child, in a court case that had me on the edge of my friggin seat! This part of the story tugged…no ripped at my heartstrings because we finally see Harry at his most vulnerable – jaysus, just thinking about it and I am tearing up again!! FFS, Mr Smith! You really captured the emotions beautifully! But when it is all over, another side to Harry is revealed …..and it is not what I was expecting at all! #NoSpoilers!
The second in the #DIHarryEvans series ends with a BANG and really makes the reader question everything they know…or think they know, so far in the series! What the hell are you trying to do to us readers, Mr Smith!? Eeeeeeek! I am now desperate for the next novella and book 3, and I am gutted that it will be another year before I can find out what the hell is next for Harry and the Major Crimes Team! Can’t you write any faster? *bats eyelashes* ~ pretty please!?
Did I enjoy this book? No…I bloody LOVED it!! Do I recommend this book to readers? Hell Yeah! I do! I do! I do!! Each book can be read on its own, but I recommend you download and enjoy the WHOLE series….because it bloody well rocks! Get clicking peeps! Seriously!!
October 1, 2016
As this is the second novel in the series, I would recommend reading Snatched From Home prior to I know Your Secret, that way you can get the maximum enjoyment of this brilliant crime series.
The beginning of this novel had me hooked straight away. I mean come on, a priest who has been crucified! Obviously I was dying to know the who, why’s and how’s. It wasn’t just the murder at the beginning that had me hooked though, the whole story line was just a roller coaster of thrills and emotions.
DI Campbell is overseeing the team in investigating the priests death. In a way I felt slightly sorry for him as he has to prove himself to the powers that be who are above him, as well as trying to get the best out of the team whilst catching a killer.
Whilst the team are getting stuck into the new case, Harry Evans is going through quite an ordeal. Even though he can’t keep away from his police work, he is also going to court each day for the trial of the man who was behind his wife’s death. Wow, I have to say that I found the trial a powerful and emotional read. Harry’s emotions and grief almost felt like my own. It really is quite raw and by the end of the case I was literally an emotional wreck.
This series really has a great cast of characters. Each has their own role to play in the team and are equally as important. The case the team are working on, well I would never have guessed at the direction it went in and it certainly holds plenty of surprises!
I Know Your Secret is an absolute must read for any crime fans. I knew as soon as I started it that it was going to be a great read and the author certainly did not disappoint. It’s certainly got to be one of the most emotional crime novels I’ve ever read, yet it still had a gripping case that guaranteed a thrilling read.
A fantastic second book to a series which has left me desperate for the next one.
My thanks to the author and Caffeine Nights Publishing for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The beginning of this novel had me hooked straight away. I mean come on, a priest who has been crucified! Obviously I was dying to know the who, why’s and how’s. It wasn’t just the murder at the beginning that had me hooked though, the whole story line was just a roller coaster of thrills and emotions.
DI Campbell is overseeing the team in investigating the priests death. In a way I felt slightly sorry for him as he has to prove himself to the powers that be who are above him, as well as trying to get the best out of the team whilst catching a killer.
Whilst the team are getting stuck into the new case, Harry Evans is going through quite an ordeal. Even though he can’t keep away from his police work, he is also going to court each day for the trial of the man who was behind his wife’s death. Wow, I have to say that I found the trial a powerful and emotional read. Harry’s emotions and grief almost felt like my own. It really is quite raw and by the end of the case I was literally an emotional wreck.
This series really has a great cast of characters. Each has their own role to play in the team and are equally as important. The case the team are working on, well I would never have guessed at the direction it went in and it certainly holds plenty of surprises!
I Know Your Secret is an absolute must read for any crime fans. I knew as soon as I started it that it was going to be a great read and the author certainly did not disappoint. It’s certainly got to be one of the most emotional crime novels I’ve ever read, yet it still had a gripping case that guaranteed a thrilling read.
A fantastic second book to a series which has left me desperate for the next one.
My thanks to the author and Caffeine Nights Publishing for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 21, 2016
it's taken me all night to polish these stars so they are shining and twinkling.
worth every damn one of them.
Well we are back in Cumbria with Harry and crew. Harry has a lot on his mind at the moment, he has a big court case to attend, which is very personal to him. And he's nearing the end of his police career, which is something he doesn't want to happen.
Taking over from Harry will be DI John Campbell. I like John and I think I could get used to him, but he's not Harry. lol. And for some reason that's what I keep thinking when I'm reading about him.
This story is started with a dead priest, and by that I mean a dead murdered priest, not for the faint hearted this book, but it starts with a punch and ends with punch. It had me gripped from the start and I not only wanted to keep going, I needed to keep going.
There are many twist in this story, as you think the book is going off in one direction, I found it slowly winding it's way into the last part of the story to, before you know it, everything is fitting into place and all the dot's become joined. I loved the way it was all put together and made one hell of an interesting story.
Personally I would recommend you read the first book, as I feel it gives you more of an idea of what is going on, and the history of characters. You would probably get away with reading just this one, but as I say you would have a better understanding.
worth every damn one of them.
Well we are back in Cumbria with Harry and crew. Harry has a lot on his mind at the moment, he has a big court case to attend, which is very personal to him. And he's nearing the end of his police career, which is something he doesn't want to happen.
Taking over from Harry will be DI John Campbell. I like John and I think I could get used to him, but he's not Harry. lol. And for some reason that's what I keep thinking when I'm reading about him.
This story is started with a dead priest, and by that I mean a dead murdered priest, not for the faint hearted this book, but it starts with a punch and ends with punch. It had me gripped from the start and I not only wanted to keep going, I needed to keep going.
There are many twist in this story, as you think the book is going off in one direction, I found it slowly winding it's way into the last part of the story to, before you know it, everything is fitting into place and all the dot's become joined. I loved the way it was all put together and made one hell of an interesting story.
Personally I would recommend you read the first book, as I feel it gives you more of an idea of what is going on, and the history of characters. You would probably get away with reading just this one, but as I say you would have a better understanding.
October 2, 2016
Oh My! I honestly thought that after the last novella, Matching the Evidence, it just couldn't really get any better but how wrong was I! Graham Smith played relentlessly with every emotion that I had. Yes had, I still haven't recovered yet. He was a puppet master that pulled on my heart strings, especially where D.I. Harry Evans was concerned. A broken man at court relying on a British justice system and 12 random members of the general public. It doesn't bare thinking about does it?
I simply love this team of Cumbrian misfits that make up the investigating police officers when a local squeaky clean priest is murdered. The relentless hours of footwork interviews a lot of dodgy computer work and hey one of the best assets that any team would love to have. Lauren. I mean if you have it make it work for you and by heck she knows how to do that. You just have to love this girl.
There quite a few story lines taking place which you simply never lose track of. It all comes together superbly. By the way Mr. Smith I am thinking of suing as you have ruined me as a reader, I just simply can't settle into another book. A massive must buy novel.
I wish to thank Caffeine Nights Publishing for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
I simply love this team of Cumbrian misfits that make up the investigating police officers when a local squeaky clean priest is murdered. The relentless hours of footwork interviews a lot of dodgy computer work and hey one of the best assets that any team would love to have. Lauren. I mean if you have it make it work for you and by heck she knows how to do that. You just have to love this girl.
There quite a few story lines taking place which you simply never lose track of. It all comes together superbly. By the way Mr. Smith I am thinking of suing as you have ruined me as a reader, I just simply can't settle into another book. A massive must buy novel.
I wish to thank Caffeine Nights Publishing for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
September 26, 2016
This is, in my opinion, the best book in the Major Crime Team series so far. Whilst it can easily be read as a stand alone, I would advise reading the other volumes in the series first as they really do help to set the scene and introduce the characters. The story revolves around the gruesome murder of a Priest, and the investigation into his murder. Is this the work of a serial killer? Great stuff from Graham Smith, and my thanks go to Noelle Holten and the publishers for the chance to read this proof copy.
October 12, 2016
A book full of action on many fronts each strand though expertly handled and brought to conclusion.At times tense and taut there is still time for some humour.Graham Smiths' work continues to impress and you are left looking for more
October 12, 2016
I was sent an ARC of this in exchange for an honest review.
After reading Matching the Evidence I was really looking forward to this one, the latest in the Major Crimes series and I wasn't disappointed. Harry, Campbell and the team pulled me straight into the story from page one which starts when a priest is found crucified in his own church.
The race is on to catch the perpetrator before he strikes again and the team haven't got much to go on, on top of this Harry is dealing with the court case which will hopefully see his wife's rapist go down for a very long time.
I love how the team work together to get their results, especially Harry, in true Gene Hunt style he breaks all the rules to solve the cases. I look forward to reading more in this series and would like to thank Caffeine Nights Publishing and the author for sending me this book. I will post my review on Goodreads now and on Amazon on publication day.
After reading Matching the Evidence I was really looking forward to this one, the latest in the Major Crimes series and I wasn't disappointed. Harry, Campbell and the team pulled me straight into the story from page one which starts when a priest is found crucified in his own church.
The race is on to catch the perpetrator before he strikes again and the team haven't got much to go on, on top of this Harry is dealing with the court case which will hopefully see his wife's rapist go down for a very long time.
I love how the team work together to get their results, especially Harry, in true Gene Hunt style he breaks all the rules to solve the cases. I look forward to reading more in this series and would like to thank Caffeine Nights Publishing and the author for sending me this book. I will post my review on Goodreads now and on Amazon on publication day.
October 12, 2016
Having finished playing catch-up with the other book and novella in this series, I was finally able to start this book. Oh my goodness, it was definitely worth the wait! Obviously it is always best to do what I have gone back and done and read from the start in order, but I think that this book works all the better if you do actually do this as you can really see the character development and understand the backstories which, in my opinion is key to some of the behaviour exhibited by certain major players in this book.
As with previous books, we have a couple of things going on in this book crime-wise. It's a game I like to play to guess which ones are connected, if at all, and if so, how? It's not really a game I win all too often though but hey, that's the sign of a good writer if they can keep me guessing, second-guessing and on my toes throughout.
In this book, the outgoing (soon to retire) DI Harry Evans is a bit preoccupied with a personal court case. One very very close to his heart and the scenes therein were obviously very emotional- although, balance was struck with the use to a certain character called Shouty Joe - love him, want more of him in future books please. That said, he still has time to inveigle himself into all the cases that seem to be piling up on his replacement DI Campbell. Still fresh from his "reprimand" for actions in previous volumes, Campbell is really feeling the heat and welcomes assistance from wherever he can get it, albeit reluctantly from Harry. After all, Harry still knows everyone and everything - well, he likes to think so.
The main crime in this book is a bit of a doozy too. A priest crucified in a church with no apparent motive. His closet is thoroughly searched and no sign of even the smallest skeleton is uncovered, so why is he dead, in this brutal way. With no clues to the why, Campbell and team concentrate on the how and, slowly they start to make inroads into possible motives and suspects. Each one failing as soon as it is uncovered. Will Harry Evans be able to pull on his Mighty Mouse costume in time to "save the day" and, more importantly, with time running out, what does the future have in store for him once he is retired from the Force. And then we have a blackmailer, and a swindler, and another violent death. All in a day's work for Cumbria's finest.
Where, in the first book, I loved Harry's maverick techniques employed to serve up justice, in this book I did have a few moments when my head was saying "no" but, in the end, my heart overruled and I capitulated to the charm that this guy just exudes in spades. I really don't want to like him but I just can't help myself. The rebel within me is speaking out. This is the sign of a great character; one that has me in all sorts of kerfuffles with my thoughts and feelings contradicting all over the place. I just have to keep saying "means to an end" over and over in order to placate myself. In this book, his human side comes out all the more with the personal stuff he is going through and this also assists my justification in loving his character as I feel that what he is going through, and indeed the repercussions, leaves him a little vulnerable at times and that makes him all the more attractive. Until the end that was, that left me reeling and threw my thoughts and feeling all up in the air again; sigh.
The other members of the team are coming along nicely too. I love the way they are still torn between Harry and Campbell and how fiercely loyal they are still to Harry - well illustrated by some of the antics depicted in this book. They all bring a little something to the team, on the face of it, they are a bit of a motley crew of characters, but, when the chips are down, they all rally together to get the right result. I'd have them on my side any day of the week.
Pacing and plotting were perfect. With a few different threads weaving throughout the book, seemingly unconnected, it would be easy to get lost. However, even with my rubbish concentration and poor memory, I never floundered nor got lost. Kudos to the author for that!
All in all, a great addition to what is now a well established series. I'm now waiting for the next one, please don't leave me hanging here too long.
My thanks go to the Publisher for the chance to read an advance copy of this book.
As with previous books, we have a couple of things going on in this book crime-wise. It's a game I like to play to guess which ones are connected, if at all, and if so, how? It's not really a game I win all too often though but hey, that's the sign of a good writer if they can keep me guessing, second-guessing and on my toes throughout.
In this book, the outgoing (soon to retire) DI Harry Evans is a bit preoccupied with a personal court case. One very very close to his heart and the scenes therein were obviously very emotional- although, balance was struck with the use to a certain character called Shouty Joe - love him, want more of him in future books please. That said, he still has time to inveigle himself into all the cases that seem to be piling up on his replacement DI Campbell. Still fresh from his "reprimand" for actions in previous volumes, Campbell is really feeling the heat and welcomes assistance from wherever he can get it, albeit reluctantly from Harry. After all, Harry still knows everyone and everything - well, he likes to think so.
The main crime in this book is a bit of a doozy too. A priest crucified in a church with no apparent motive. His closet is thoroughly searched and no sign of even the smallest skeleton is uncovered, so why is he dead, in this brutal way. With no clues to the why, Campbell and team concentrate on the how and, slowly they start to make inroads into possible motives and suspects. Each one failing as soon as it is uncovered. Will Harry Evans be able to pull on his Mighty Mouse costume in time to "save the day" and, more importantly, with time running out, what does the future have in store for him once he is retired from the Force. And then we have a blackmailer, and a swindler, and another violent death. All in a day's work for Cumbria's finest.
Where, in the first book, I loved Harry's maverick techniques employed to serve up justice, in this book I did have a few moments when my head was saying "no" but, in the end, my heart overruled and I capitulated to the charm that this guy just exudes in spades. I really don't want to like him but I just can't help myself. The rebel within me is speaking out. This is the sign of a great character; one that has me in all sorts of kerfuffles with my thoughts and feelings contradicting all over the place. I just have to keep saying "means to an end" over and over in order to placate myself. In this book, his human side comes out all the more with the personal stuff he is going through and this also assists my justification in loving his character as I feel that what he is going through, and indeed the repercussions, leaves him a little vulnerable at times and that makes him all the more attractive. Until the end that was, that left me reeling and threw my thoughts and feeling all up in the air again; sigh.
The other members of the team are coming along nicely too. I love the way they are still torn between Harry and Campbell and how fiercely loyal they are still to Harry - well illustrated by some of the antics depicted in this book. They all bring a little something to the team, on the face of it, they are a bit of a motley crew of characters, but, when the chips are down, they all rally together to get the right result. I'd have them on my side any day of the week.
Pacing and plotting were perfect. With a few different threads weaving throughout the book, seemingly unconnected, it would be easy to get lost. However, even with my rubbish concentration and poor memory, I never floundered nor got lost. Kudos to the author for that!
All in all, a great addition to what is now a well established series. I'm now waiting for the next one, please don't leave me hanging here too long.
My thanks go to the Publisher for the chance to read an advance copy of this book.
October 12, 2016
After 30 years of service DI Harry Evans is approaching enforced retirement. He’s not a happy man as he lives for the job and would do anything to keep working with Cumbria’s Major Crimes Team. But his replacement, DI John Campbell is keen to see the back of Harry and his renegade ways. While DI Evans is trying to deal with the trial of his wife’s rapist, DI Campbell is called to the scene of a horrific death. A local priest has been violently killed and crucified to the church floor. Shortly after, another priest is viciously attacked and left for dead. Are the two crimes linked? It’s down to DI Campbell and the Major Crimes Team to discover who has a grudge against the local clergy and whether the secrets being kept are worth killing for…
I really like Harry Evans. There’s something about him that makes me feel like I shouldn’t like him, but I do! He’s a bit of a maverick, bit of a rule breaker but with a good heart. And I love the camaraderie between him and the rest of the team. I said in my Matching the Evidence review that I wanted to know more about the characters of the Major Crimes Team and this book has done that. I really like Neil Chisolm and felt strangely sorry for him being stuck in the office rather than out there in the field with his colleagues. I wasn’t so keen on Lauren, she seems a little too eager to use her feminine wiles rather than her smarts. I’d love to know more about Bhaki, he seems a little too nice and polite to be a cop! And I still haven’t warmed to DI John Campbell. But he brings the necessary friction to a well-gelled team, which makes him quite vital.
Harry Evans is distracted throughout the story by the trial of his wife’s rapist. I thought these sections were well written and gave an emotional insight into a normally gruff character. I really felt for Harry. I did enjoy the way he dipped in and out of the investigation to distract himself from what was happening in court.
There were several different threads running through the story and at times I couldn’t see the connection. There were no clear links in my mind, but the author has done a brilliant job of linking the different storylines up and making the plots fit seamlessly together. The book was well paced with an exciting conclusion. I look forward to reading more from Graham Smith in the future.
Four out of five stars.
Many thanks to Noelle Holten, Graham Smith and Caffeine Nights Publishing for providing me with a copy of I Know Your Secret in exchange for an honest review.
I really like Harry Evans. There’s something about him that makes me feel like I shouldn’t like him, but I do! He’s a bit of a maverick, bit of a rule breaker but with a good heart. And I love the camaraderie between him and the rest of the team. I said in my Matching the Evidence review that I wanted to know more about the characters of the Major Crimes Team and this book has done that. I really like Neil Chisolm and felt strangely sorry for him being stuck in the office rather than out there in the field with his colleagues. I wasn’t so keen on Lauren, she seems a little too eager to use her feminine wiles rather than her smarts. I’d love to know more about Bhaki, he seems a little too nice and polite to be a cop! And I still haven’t warmed to DI John Campbell. But he brings the necessary friction to a well-gelled team, which makes him quite vital.
Harry Evans is distracted throughout the story by the trial of his wife’s rapist. I thought these sections were well written and gave an emotional insight into a normally gruff character. I really felt for Harry. I did enjoy the way he dipped in and out of the investigation to distract himself from what was happening in court.
There were several different threads running through the story and at times I couldn’t see the connection. There were no clear links in my mind, but the author has done a brilliant job of linking the different storylines up and making the plots fit seamlessly together. The book was well paced with an exciting conclusion. I look forward to reading more from Graham Smith in the future.
Four out of five stars.
Many thanks to Noelle Holten, Graham Smith and Caffeine Nights Publishing for providing me with a copy of I Know Your Secret in exchange for an honest review.
October 6, 2016
Well this is the third book that I have by Graham in a matter of weeks I am starting to feel like a Stalker now lol But there is something about this author that I simply love. His writing skills are fresh and crisp Everything is kept simple, I can't be doing with too much waffle and Graham just seems to hit the nail on the head with each book that i have read. Oh and did I mention they are very addictive, I found myself totally sucked in from the start to the end. There is never a dull moment that's for sure!
This is the second DI Harry Evans novel. But having read Snatched from Home and loving that. I can’t believe I am saying this…..but yes this one is even better!!! you guys are in for a treat that’s for sure.
So in this story Father Patterson is murdered where he is found crucified. DI John Campbell and his team of misfits race to find the killer before he strikes again. While DI Harry Evans is spending time at a trail of his wife's rapist.
Holy Hell what a story line!!! there is lots going on in this story starting with a murder investigation, a brutal assault and a blackmailer but the question is how is all this linked to the murder of the priest?!
From nitty gritty forensic work to courtroom action…… OMG what a book. . The author has certainly done some research because it really does show. I love the fact this story has all the courtroom side of things going on. I must say it is rare to read this in a novel but Graham has certainly packed some punches with this story.It is a must read for you crime fans. I love Evans character has I have said before. But with this story we get to read more of DI John Campbell And although this story is gritty and brutal they is always some humor in it with these guys they are just fab.
Once again this book has it all which I highly recommend giving it 5 massive stars.
Thank you to Noelle Holton,Graham Smith and Caffeine nights for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second DI Harry Evans novel. But having read Snatched from Home and loving that. I can’t believe I am saying this…..but yes this one is even better!!! you guys are in for a treat that’s for sure.
So in this story Father Patterson is murdered where he is found crucified. DI John Campbell and his team of misfits race to find the killer before he strikes again. While DI Harry Evans is spending time at a trail of his wife's rapist.
Holy Hell what a story line!!! there is lots going on in this story starting with a murder investigation, a brutal assault and a blackmailer but the question is how is all this linked to the murder of the priest?!
From nitty gritty forensic work to courtroom action…… OMG what a book. . The author has certainly done some research because it really does show. I love the fact this story has all the courtroom side of things going on. I must say it is rare to read this in a novel but Graham has certainly packed some punches with this story.It is a must read for you crime fans. I love Evans character has I have said before. But with this story we get to read more of DI John Campbell And although this story is gritty and brutal they is always some humor in it with these guys they are just fab.
Once again this book has it all which I highly recommend giving it 5 massive stars.
Thank you to Noelle Holton,Graham Smith and Caffeine nights for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 25, 2016
I was given a copy as an arc for an honest review.
I am blown away by the cruelty, thriller, and sensitivity of this book.
The plotlines are well paced, adapted as a follow on, but can read as a stand alone.
D.I. Harry, is a brilliantly portrayed character. The team work well, gelled together and the conversations betweenthem re sublime.
True Northern Grititure...
I am blown away by the cruelty, thriller, and sensitivity of this book.
The plotlines are well paced, adapted as a follow on, but can read as a stand alone.
D.I. Harry, is a brilliantly portrayed character. The team work well, gelled together and the conversations betweenthem re sublime.
True Northern Grititure...
September 27, 2016
I am so happy to have found this author, loving his books. Great characters, in particular Harry Evans. This book will have you hooked from page one until the end. Many thanks for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 4, 2016
I have mixed feelings about the novel, I liked the interweaving threads of story especially the ones featuring the young student at Carlisle college. The concept of the crime featuring the priest was quite novel and interesting. However I sometimes found the pace of the novel a little slow for me.
October 12, 2016
This is my second venture into Graham Smith’s DI Harry Evans series after recently reading and reviewing his novella Matching The Evidence and I can tell you now it won’t be my last. I Know Your Secret is a cracking crime novel and despite not having read Snatched From Home and reading them in the wrong order it works brilliantly as a stand alone novel.
I Know Your Secret kicks off immediately with a murder and from chapter one I was hooked. A priest has been brutally murdered and a number of people are being blackmailed by an unknown source who seems to know their deepest, darkest secrets. DI Harry Evans and his team have their work cut out trying to catch the killer while Harry is also attending the trial for his wife’s rapist and coming to terms with his imminent retirement.
Graham really draws the reader into the heart of the police investigation and what I love is his realistic portrayal of the budget limitations and stretched resources. You are not only involved in the main story line but the other crimes that the short staffed team are also having to investigate.
The characters within the Major Crime Team are brilliantly executed and I felt I got to know each of them really well. Harry Evans, the renegade cop, is struggling with recent life events and upcoming retirement and although he isn’t always the most lovable character and has some questionable behaviour, I empathised with him and really like his non-conformist ways. My heart went out to DI John Campbell, trying to fit in with a new team in which his predecessor is so highly regarded is not easy.
I really like a bad guy and love it even more when they are multi-layered and you are given an insight into the reasons and motivation behind their behaviour and Graham has done just this. Humans are complex and never black and white and in I Know Your Secret Graham has portrayed this brilliantly.
I Know Your Secret is perfectly plotted and well paced, I devoured this book in no time at all. Thinking at times I had it all worked out, Graham proved me wrong. He manages to pack so much into the book and seamlessly ensures it all makes sense and fits together at the end.
Looking for a great crime thriller that gets you right into the heart of the police investigation? Look no further than I Know Your Secret, you won’t be disappointed!
Thanks to Graham Smith, Noelle Holten and Caffeine Nights Publishing for the advance copy and for inviting me onto the blog tour.
Published 17 October 2016 by Caffeine Nights Publishing.
I Know Your Secret kicks off immediately with a murder and from chapter one I was hooked. A priest has been brutally murdered and a number of people are being blackmailed by an unknown source who seems to know their deepest, darkest secrets. DI Harry Evans and his team have their work cut out trying to catch the killer while Harry is also attending the trial for his wife’s rapist and coming to terms with his imminent retirement.
Graham really draws the reader into the heart of the police investigation and what I love is his realistic portrayal of the budget limitations and stretched resources. You are not only involved in the main story line but the other crimes that the short staffed team are also having to investigate.
The characters within the Major Crime Team are brilliantly executed and I felt I got to know each of them really well. Harry Evans, the renegade cop, is struggling with recent life events and upcoming retirement and although he isn’t always the most lovable character and has some questionable behaviour, I empathised with him and really like his non-conformist ways. My heart went out to DI John Campbell, trying to fit in with a new team in which his predecessor is so highly regarded is not easy.
I really like a bad guy and love it even more when they are multi-layered and you are given an insight into the reasons and motivation behind their behaviour and Graham has done just this. Humans are complex and never black and white and in I Know Your Secret Graham has portrayed this brilliantly.
I Know Your Secret is perfectly plotted and well paced, I devoured this book in no time at all. Thinking at times I had it all worked out, Graham proved me wrong. He manages to pack so much into the book and seamlessly ensures it all makes sense and fits together at the end.
Looking for a great crime thriller that gets you right into the heart of the police investigation? Look no further than I Know Your Secret, you won’t be disappointed!
Thanks to Graham Smith, Noelle Holten and Caffeine Nights Publishing for the advance copy and for inviting me onto the blog tour.
Published 17 October 2016 by Caffeine Nights Publishing.
October 14, 2016
DI Harry Evans has featured in two previous Major Crimes books and also in Graham Smith’s Snatched From Home. He is very much master of his home patch in Carlisle but is facing the prospect of imminent retirement and with that he may well lose the last thing that is important to him.
As the description above mentions Harry is also having to contend with the trial of his wife’s rapist. Previous books outlined events leading up to this confrontation but you do not need to have actually read them to keep up with the events in I Know Your Secret, it stands up well as a jumping on point for new readers.
I Know Your Secret opens with a very powerful murder. A priest is crucified on the floor of his chapel. Cumbria’s finest are called to investigate and Harry’s replacement (DI John Campbell) is leading the team. I like Campbell, he is battling against the demands of being a supportive new father, battling the influence of the outgoing Harry Evans who does not want to give up his patch and battling against the constant pressure of understaffing and minimal resources.
Graham Smith balances the central characters well. We switch between Campbell’s investigation, Harry’s interventions, the court case and….did I mention a Killer and Blackmailer? As you may have guessed from the title I Know Your Secret is a tale about secrets. With secrets comes knowledge and with knowledge comes power – or sometimes blackmail.
There is loads going on in I Know Your Secret and Harry Evans is determined to be at the centre of everything. It will take its toll, physically and mentally Graham Smith is putting DI Evans through a personal Hell – it makes for intense reading.
Dark in all the right places, I Know Your Secret is a nicely constructed police procedural with some clever twists that caught me off guard.
As the description above mentions Harry is also having to contend with the trial of his wife’s rapist. Previous books outlined events leading up to this confrontation but you do not need to have actually read them to keep up with the events in I Know Your Secret, it stands up well as a jumping on point for new readers.
I Know Your Secret opens with a very powerful murder. A priest is crucified on the floor of his chapel. Cumbria’s finest are called to investigate and Harry’s replacement (DI John Campbell) is leading the team. I like Campbell, he is battling against the demands of being a supportive new father, battling the influence of the outgoing Harry Evans who does not want to give up his patch and battling against the constant pressure of understaffing and minimal resources.
Graham Smith balances the central characters well. We switch between Campbell’s investigation, Harry’s interventions, the court case and….did I mention a Killer and Blackmailer? As you may have guessed from the title I Know Your Secret is a tale about secrets. With secrets comes knowledge and with knowledge comes power – or sometimes blackmail.
There is loads going on in I Know Your Secret and Harry Evans is determined to be at the centre of everything. It will take its toll, physically and mentally Graham Smith is putting DI Evans through a personal Hell – it makes for intense reading.
Dark in all the right places, I Know Your Secret is a nicely constructed police procedural with some clever twists that caught me off guard.
October 12, 2016
I was given an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
Having loved Graham Smiths previous books featuring the Major Crimes Team, I couldn't wait to read this. It truly didn't disappoint. The opening chapter pulls you in and keeps you hooked for the duration.
Whilst the team, led by Campbell, are hunting the murderer of a priest, Harry Evans is in court for the trial of his wife's rapist, the man he holds responsible for his wife taking her own life. There are several strands within the book involving different cases, all of which keep you guessing and wanting to find out more. The flow of the authors writing keeps you glued throughout.
I have to say I was taken through every emotion known to man reading this. I found myself laughing and crying at times. The courtroom scenes involving Harry are written so well that the reader feels all of his pain and anguish. This will stay with me for a long time.
Harry being Harry cannot stay away from work and uses it to keep him going through the court case. His evenings and free time are spent with the team adding his ideas and determined to solve the cases.Harry never does anything by the book but always manages to get results. There are times when his self doubts leave him thinking he has lost his touch but he fights back.
To say I loved this book is a massive understatement and I look forward to the next one.
To anyone who has yet to read any of Graham Smiths books, I urge you to give them a go, you won't be disappointed. To fully enjoy this book I would recommend reading The Major Crime Team, Snatched from Home and Matching the Evidence first as you will feel you know the whole team and their stories personally but this could be read as a standalone book.
Having loved Graham Smiths previous books featuring the Major Crimes Team, I couldn't wait to read this. It truly didn't disappoint. The opening chapter pulls you in and keeps you hooked for the duration.
Whilst the team, led by Campbell, are hunting the murderer of a priest, Harry Evans is in court for the trial of his wife's rapist, the man he holds responsible for his wife taking her own life. There are several strands within the book involving different cases, all of which keep you guessing and wanting to find out more. The flow of the authors writing keeps you glued throughout.
I have to say I was taken through every emotion known to man reading this. I found myself laughing and crying at times. The courtroom scenes involving Harry are written so well that the reader feels all of his pain and anguish. This will stay with me for a long time.
Harry being Harry cannot stay away from work and uses it to keep him going through the court case. His evenings and free time are spent with the team adding his ideas and determined to solve the cases.Harry never does anything by the book but always manages to get results. There are times when his self doubts leave him thinking he has lost his touch but he fights back.
To say I loved this book is a massive understatement and I look forward to the next one.
To anyone who has yet to read any of Graham Smiths books, I urge you to give them a go, you won't be disappointed. To fully enjoy this book I would recommend reading The Major Crime Team, Snatched from Home and Matching the Evidence first as you will feel you know the whole team and their stories personally but this could be read as a standalone book.
September 15, 2016
As I read I Know Your Secret, I had to keep reminding myself in the world of Evans, it's less than a week since Snatched From Home had happened. Normally with sequels, there's a time gap between books but not with Graham Smith. He took the team reeling from events in Snatched straight into Matching the Evidence which is a non-stop weekend of football hooligans and illegal immigrants and then bang into four cases of murder, assault, rape and deception. On top of all of this, Harry Evans is facing the court case of his life, the trial of his wife's rapist so DI John Campbell is at the helm of the Major Crimes Team, still under the dark cloud of last week's antics.
The whole book is an emotional rollercoaster from the shock of the initial murder (surely killing a priest is sacrilege??) through the slight comedy of the conned toff being a man with connections high up in Cumbria police (or was that just me that amusing) and the wincing of Father Owen's injuries to the verdict of the court case. I felt a mess of emotions by the time I'd finished the book and I never thought that would be the case with a gritty police procedural but Mr Smith you managed it!
I love the Guns N' Roses quoted at the beginning of the books. Once you get to the end of the book, they make perfect sense!
I think this is the best I've read from Graham Smith. Not doing his previous books a disservice; they were brilliant but this goes that bit further. If I could give it more than 5 ⭐️ I would!
Huge thanks to Caffeine Nights Publishing and Graham Smith for giving me a copy of I Know Your Secret! I beg you, please don't let this be the end of Harry Evans!!! Pretty please?!?!
The whole book is an emotional rollercoaster from the shock of the initial murder (surely killing a priest is sacrilege??) through the slight comedy of the conned toff being a man with connections high up in Cumbria police (or was that just me that amusing) and the wincing of Father Owen's injuries to the verdict of the court case. I felt a mess of emotions by the time I'd finished the book and I never thought that would be the case with a gritty police procedural but Mr Smith you managed it!
I love the Guns N' Roses quoted at the beginning of the books. Once you get to the end of the book, they make perfect sense!
I think this is the best I've read from Graham Smith. Not doing his previous books a disservice; they were brilliant but this goes that bit further. If I could give it more than 5 ⭐️ I would!
Huge thanks to Caffeine Nights Publishing and Graham Smith for giving me a copy of I Know Your Secret! I beg you, please don't let this be the end of Harry Evans!!! Pretty please?!?!
October 6, 2016
Having read and enjoyed Matching The Evidence I was intrigued to see how the characters would be in a fully developed story as opposed to a novella and I wasn’t disappointed.
I Know Your Secret opens with the murder of a priest, and it’s up to Campbell and his team to find the killer before they can commit any more! What ensues actually goes in directions I wasn’t expecting at all, and it kept me turning the pages.
Alongside this, DI Harry Evans is attending the trial of his wife’s rapist, and it is in these chapters that the novel gains strength. Harrowing evidence, coupled with a very emotional Harry make the story a gripping read.The author has done a great job in portraying Harry’s inner turmoil, while making sure his haughty bravado and tough exterior are what others see. However, there are a couple of times that the chink in his armour is glimpsed by those around him and its sad to see.
As if that isn’t enough, there’s also some rather intriguing blackmail going on within the book. What it escalates into was completely unexpected as well, but it was a really interesting aside to the murders and everything else that was going on.
I thoroughly enjoyed I Know Your Secret. It’s a tense and engaging read with a real sense of humanity and camaraderie at its core. The Major Crimes team, with or without DI Harry Evans present, make for a great cast of characters and I really liked catching up with them in this book. Highly recommended!
I Know Your Secret opens with the murder of a priest, and it’s up to Campbell and his team to find the killer before they can commit any more! What ensues actually goes in directions I wasn’t expecting at all, and it kept me turning the pages.
Alongside this, DI Harry Evans is attending the trial of his wife’s rapist, and it is in these chapters that the novel gains strength. Harrowing evidence, coupled with a very emotional Harry make the story a gripping read.The author has done a great job in portraying Harry’s inner turmoil, while making sure his haughty bravado and tough exterior are what others see. However, there are a couple of times that the chink in his armour is glimpsed by those around him and its sad to see.
As if that isn’t enough, there’s also some rather intriguing blackmail going on within the book. What it escalates into was completely unexpected as well, but it was a really interesting aside to the murders and everything else that was going on.
I thoroughly enjoyed I Know Your Secret. It’s a tense and engaging read with a real sense of humanity and camaraderie at its core. The Major Crimes team, with or without DI Harry Evans present, make for a great cast of characters and I really liked catching up with them in this book. Highly recommended!
September 19, 2016
I Know Your Secret is another very well deserved 5* police thriller by Graham Smith and I am a huge fan of this author.
I love DI Harry Evans and his team who are not afraid to break the rules to get the job done, as long as they put the bad guys behind bars. In this exciting and gripping book we find Harry in the courtroom hoping to get justice for his wife’s rape and solving crimes after hours, in what is supposed to be his last few days before forced retirement from the Crime Team. I loved reading about the personal side to Harry Evens in this book and found it quite emotional at times.
I highly recommend I Know Your Secret and it can be read as a standalone, but do yourself a favour and read them all, Matching the Evidence (novella), Snatched From Home and Major Crime Team Vol 1 (novella) in that order before starting on this fantastic book.
I can’t wait for the next book in this thrilling series and hope the wait is not too long.
Many thanks to Graham Smith for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I love DI Harry Evans and his team who are not afraid to break the rules to get the job done, as long as they put the bad guys behind bars. In this exciting and gripping book we find Harry in the courtroom hoping to get justice for his wife’s rape and solving crimes after hours, in what is supposed to be his last few days before forced retirement from the Crime Team. I loved reading about the personal side to Harry Evens in this book and found it quite emotional at times.
I highly recommend I Know Your Secret and it can be read as a standalone, but do yourself a favour and read them all, Matching the Evidence (novella), Snatched From Home and Major Crime Team Vol 1 (novella) in that order before starting on this fantastic book.
I can’t wait for the next book in this thrilling series and hope the wait is not too long.
Many thanks to Graham Smith for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 28, 2016
I was given an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
What can I say!? Graham Smith has done it again; another five stars from me for this corker of a story. It was great to catch up with DI Harry Evans and the Major Crimes Team. I have to say I love all the characters but I wouldn't want to work with them! They would eat me alive (especially Lauren). As brash as some of the team are, they work wonderfully together and I really hope this isn't the last we'll see of the whole team.
This novel is set within days of the previous Snatched from Home and Matching the evidence stories so I'd advise reading those first to understand the background. Someone is bribing people over their secrets, there's a cruicified priest and a certain scene that put me off sausage at breakfast!! Twist, turns and shocks throughout the book and I thoroughly recommend it.
What can I say!? Graham Smith has done it again; another five stars from me for this corker of a story. It was great to catch up with DI Harry Evans and the Major Crimes Team. I have to say I love all the characters but I wouldn't want to work with them! They would eat me alive (especially Lauren). As brash as some of the team are, they work wonderfully together and I really hope this isn't the last we'll see of the whole team.
This novel is set within days of the previous Snatched from Home and Matching the evidence stories so I'd advise reading those first to understand the background. Someone is bribing people over their secrets, there's a cruicified priest and a certain scene that put me off sausage at breakfast!! Twist, turns and shocks throughout the book and I thoroughly recommend it.
October 7, 2016
I Know Your Secret by Graham Smith
Thank you to Noelle Holten , Graham Smith and Caffeine Nights Publishers for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This series is going from strength to strength. The Major Crimes Team in Cumbria are faced with the murder of a priest. The DI Harry Evans team are a force to be reckoned with. I love every member of the team. including DI John Campbell, who is in charge of this investigation. Each has their own speciality. Harry Evans, however has an important court case to attend.This crime thriller continues with a very emotional thread running through the series. A very well written page turner!
I Know Your Secret is an exceptional read!
Thank you to Noelle Holten , Graham Smith and Caffeine Nights Publishers for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This series is going from strength to strength. The Major Crimes Team in Cumbria are faced with the murder of a priest. The DI Harry Evans team are a force to be reckoned with. I love every member of the team. including DI John Campbell, who is in charge of this investigation. Each has their own speciality. Harry Evans, however has an important court case to attend.This crime thriller continues with a very emotional thread running through the series. A very well written page turner!
I Know Your Secret is an exceptional read!
October 16, 2016
I know your secret by Graham smith is a thriller read.
What would you do if your most intimate secret got into the wrong hands?
Absolutely fantastic read. The story and the characters were great. I kept trying to guess who it was. I loved the ending too. Highly recommended. 5*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from Caffeine Nights Publishing.
What would you do if your most intimate secret got into the wrong hands?
Absolutely fantastic read. The story and the characters were great. I kept trying to guess who it was. I loved the ending too. Highly recommended. 5*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from Caffeine Nights Publishing.
September 23, 2016
Part of Blog Tour so review to follow. But its good very good.
October 5, 2016
really enjoyable book dealing with Evans which has the most amazing story.
it was at times a little bit hard to follow as it jumps to three or so different cases
it was at times a little bit hard to follow as it jumps to three or so different cases
October 19, 2016
My first book by Graham Smith and although this is the second book in a series I think it works well as a stand alone novel. A gritty police drama with a few twists along the way. Always love a grumpy copper a la Rebus and will definitely be going back to read the earlier instalment. Thank you to the author and TBC for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
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