Hantverkaren

The Craftsman #1

by Sharon J. Bolton

Helt avgörande för Florence Loveladys lysande karriär som polis, var när hon grep kistmakaren Larry Glassbrook. Det är nu trettio år sedan han dömdes för en serie barnamord, som ur våra värsta mardrömmar. Offren begravdes levande. Larry erkände morden; fallet var lika enkelt som det var spektakulärt. Nu är han död. Ändå har saker från det förflutna börjat upprepa sig på fasaväckande vis. Hade hon helt fel den där gången för många år sedan? Eller är någonting helt annat, ännu mörkare på spel?

Sharon Bolton är tillbaka med en gnistrande välskriven gotisk thriller: Hantverkaren [The Craftsman]. En av årets på förhand mest hyllade kriminalromaner.

Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Crime, Fiction, Mystery Thriller, Horror, Suspense

395 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2018

About the author

Sharon's newest book The Split is now available in both hardback and paperback in the UK!

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Split-grippi...

Sharon J Bolton was born and brought up in Lancashire, the eldest of three daughters. As a child, she dreamed of becoming an actress and a dancer, studying ballet, tap and jazz from a young age and reading drama at Loughborough University.

She spent her early career in marketing and PR before returning to full-time education to study for a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) at Warwick University, where she met her husband, Andrew. They moved to London and Sharon held a number of PR posts in the City. She left the City to work freelance, to start a family and to write.

She and Andrew now live in a village in the Chiltern Hills, not far from Oxford, with their son and the latest addition to the family: Lupe, the lop-eared lurcher. Her daily life revolves around the school run, walking the dog and those ever-looming publishing deadlines.

Reviews

[Meredith (Trying to catch up!) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

CHILLING!

Superbly crafted psychological thriller about children being buried alive in a small town rumored to have ties to witchcraft. This is an atmospheric, suspenseful, twisty read filled with elements of the supernatural. Witchcraft and gender norms play subtle roles that become more and more pronounced as the book progresses, culminating in a heart-stopping ending!

In 1999, Florence Loveday returns to Lancashire to attend the funeral of Larry Glassbrook--a man who committed horrible crimes that Florence happened to have solved. Florence's return causes her to flashback to her life in Lancashire as a young police officer.

In 1969 Florence Lovelady is a young police officer, who is drawn into the case of a missing 13-year-old girl. Although she gets little respect as she is the only policewoman on the Lancashire force, she goes against the grain and uses her instincts to solve the case. Florence has to battle not only murder suspects but also the men she serves on the force with.

The narrative alternates between 1969 and 1999. In the past, the reader learns of Florence’s involvement in the case, as well as some additional drama that she got involved in. In the present, Florence comes to discover an effigy of herself, which is an element used by those who practice witchcraft, causing her to look deeper at the crime that she thought she solved so long ago. The more and more she investigates and reflects on the past, the more she uncovers about what really happened at the time. There’s a lot of more going on than what initially seems.

The Craftsmen a disturbing, nuanced read that kept me riveted. I found it a little slow in the beginning, but once I got over the initial hump, I was completely sucked in by not only the plot but also by the eerie setting and elements of witchcraft. I don’t usually do the supernatural, but in this case, Bolton handles it with finesse. Florence's character is fascinating; she makes some very intriguing choices, some of which shocked me in the end!

Beware: This is a suspense filled, tension-packed reading experience. I found myself in a state of panic for the last 10% and it took a bit of time before I could calm down. What I loved about this book is that it doesn’t play off of the obvious; it's clever, multilayered, and surprising. I appreciated the original plot and loved reading the juxtaposition of witchcraft and gender roles. I highly recommend!

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books in exchange for an honest review.

[Mary Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

FIVE SHINY STARS
Deserves a lot more stars!!

The book is set right at the year of August 1999 and earlier in June of 1969. The book is set in Northern New England where witchcraft is practiced.

In August of the year of 1999, Florence Lovelady goes to the funeral of Larry Glassbrook's. She arrested him thirty years earlier. He was a funeral director and also a master carpenter. He made his own caskets and his victims were buried alive in them.

In the year of 1969 in June, Florence found a body of a thirteen year old girl who was buried alive, then later finds two other missing teenagers. She is new to the Lancashire police force and is struggling to fit in. She is sent to investigate an unlikely report from school children saying that they heard voices calling for help. A voice from deep within a recent grave.

Now it's thirty years later and Larry Glassbrook is dead and events from the past seems to repeat itself. Is someone copying the original murders? Or did she get it wrong all those years ago? Florence is drawn back to the Glassbrook's old house in the shadow of Pendle Hill where she once lived there with the family. She is chilled by the discovery of another effigy that resembles herself. Is Florence in terrible danger of could it be worse than her darkest imaginings?

This book is my favorite book on 2018. I loved this one so much. This was the perfect Fall/Halloween read. It had everything I wanted in a thriller. I loved the witchcraft and the covens. I was immediately drawn into the story. This book really creepy and scared me and I do not scare easily. Any book that has to do with being buried alive really creeps me out. Shockingly I didn't have nightmares last night. I think this book will stick with me for a very long time.

I thought I had this book all figured out and thought I knew what was going to happen next. I kept guessing and guessing and I was wrong every single time. This book is so intense, with so much action that never stops.

Sharon Bolton is my all time favorite author and I always want more after I read her books. She has one brilliant imagination.

All her characters are well developed. I loved Florence and there are a lot of unlikable characters too, especially the men.

I love her writing style. This one has some twists and turns with jaw dropping moments. I am so happy this is a series. I am so excited to read the next book. I am on a five star high! I loved this thrill ride.
I can't wait for her next book.
I hope it comes out soon.

This was a Traveling Sister Read and we were all creeped out by it but all of us enjoyed it.

I want to thank NetGalley, St. Martin's Press/Minotaur books for the copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Susanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 Stars* (rounded down)

Chilling, Disturbing & Absolutely Unputdownable! A Perfect Atmospheric Read for this Time of Year!

In Pendle Hill, Lancashire, children go missing, one by one, never to be seen again - that is, until WPC Lovelady discovers their bodies. This is a town rich with history. A town known for witchcraft & witch trials. A town known for folklore and legends, but not for the truth.

1969: WPC Florence Lovelady is a Police Officer. She is brought in to investigate the search for several missing children in Pendle Hill, who have been buried alive. Unfortunately, it is too late to save Patsy, the first victim, who is found buried in a grave with a clay effigie (a voodoo doll of sorts), made by her killer. WPC Lovelady finds Patsy’s murderer and she puts him behind bars: it’s Larry Glassbrook, the casket and coffin maker in town, who just happens to be Lovelady’s landlord.

1999: Florence Lovelady returns to town for Larry Glassbrook’s funeral. He was incarcerated for the last 30 years, thanks to Lovelady - and he died in prison. Prior to his passing, and while still incarcerated for his crimes Larry sends Lovelady a note: “I’ve kept them safe for thirty years. Over to you.”

Now it’s happening again and Lovelady can’t help but wonder, was Larry innocent all this time?

From the first, I was completely mesmerized, or spellbound if you will… (and no, I’m not a witch, although my ex-husband might have thought that once or twice, lol). “The Craftsman” is a perfectly executed novel that incorporates elements of folklore, legend, mysticism and mystery in a way that is gripping, creepy and scary as all get out. To say that I was engrossed is an understatement. The author, Sharon Bolton, captured that “feeling” and made it explode through the pages. You know the one, that tingling sensation, the one that makes you shiver, where you feel the hairs on the back of your neck stand up and for just a second you feel as though someone might be watching you? I desperately wanted to run away and yet, I simply had to know how it ended and boy was it worth it! Can I just say Wowza?

This was my first Sharon Bolton novel (I know, I know, I’ve been living under a rock!) - all I can say is that it definitely won’t be my last.

This was a buddy read with Kaceey and both of us were psyched to get our hands on this completely consuming read. Thanks for keeping me company through this one Kaceey!

A huge thank you to Jordan and Allison at St. Martin’s Press and Minotaur Books and to Sharon Bolton for a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

Published on Goodreads, Amazon, Twitter and Instagram on 10.27.18.

[Debra - can't post any comments on site today grrr · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Craftsman is the story of women, and witches. Of the children we love and must protect. And of the men who fear us." -Sharon Bolton

Holy Crap! This is the rare book which had my mouth hanging open at the end! SHOCKING!

The Craftsman is a perfectly crafted tale in which Bolton carefully molds her story of murder, sexism, witches, legend and mystery. In 1999 Assistant Commissioner Florence Lovelady has returned to Sabden with her fifteen-year-old son, Ben, for the funeral of master carpenter and funeral director, Larry Glassbrook. Thirty years ago, Florence arrested him for murdering three local teens by burying them alive with clay effigies in the caskets he made. His funeral is not the typical one. Instead of mourners weeping for the deceased, the funeral is attended by those who are happy he is dead and enjoy spitting on his casket.

Florence, who often visited Larry in prison many times over the years has come back to see him put to rest and to visit the home where she lodged while she worked with the Lancashire police force. Coincidentally the home she rented a room in, was owned by Larry Glassbrook and his wife, Sally. While examining the old home and grounds, she finds a clay effigy of herself, complete with a missing finger. One that she lost thirty years earlier. She begins to look back to 1969 when she investigated the case and those who were suspects and those who helped with the investigation.

In 1969, Florence was a member of the Lancanshire police force. She was constantly being put in her place and reminded that she was not one of the boys. Many members of the force did not like that she had a college education, was clever, smart and spoke her mind. She was constantly being asked to make tea and do menial tasks to remind her of her "place." The team especially did not like that she made suggestions concerning the missing teens and how to find them. DC Tom Devins appears at times to be the only one on the force who respects her input and opinions although he frequently cautions her about how others perceive her.

What begins to feel like a cut and dry police procedural becomes even more interesting when Florence hears drums in the distance and eventually learns that there is a coven of witches in the town. HUH? What, you may ask witches??? Yes, witches and two of them befriend Florence and remind her that she must trust someone. Here is where some might think the book is going to go off into the deep end, but here is where the magic happens (pun intended). Yes, you need to suspend some disbelief, but everything worked perfectly for me in this book. Bolton seamlessly blends the paranormal into her criminal investigation brilliantly.

The town of Sabdem is made up of quirky and interesting characters who may or may not know what is going on. There was a lot of fear in that town during 1969 when teens went missing and the police could not come up with a suspect until Larry Glassbrook's arrest. As Florence finds the clay effigy of herself in 1999 she begins to wonder who put it there? Why? Did the police miss something all those years ago? Is she in danger?

I was drawn into this book form the very beginning. My advice - read the Author's note before beginning the book. Bolton talks about the infamous Pendle Witch Trials and the legend of how a witch is baptized twice first in the church and then in dark water. She talks of her interest in witches and with women who "stand out from the crowd and who are punished by that same crowd for daring to be different."

I read most of this book in one day as I could not put it down. I was riveted to this story and refused to quit reading until I had finished the book. By the way, I love the last names in this book - Lovelady and Glassbrook. The writing is stellar, and the plot is extremely well thought out and clever. I enjoyed how the Author had a character whisper one sentence to another in the book and while I read it I thought "awe, that's sweet" and then the end came, and I realized that that the sentence meant something else entirely and I thought "HOLY CRAP!". As I mentioned, my mouth was literally hanging open at the end due to my surprise! I did not see that coming at all!!!!

This book has a little bit of everything - drama, murder, suspense, mystery, romance, witchcraft, etc. Bolton combines it all perfectly and the town itself is eerie, spooky and atmospheric.

In case I haven't' been clear, I loved this book!

I can’t believe that I have never read this Author before, I see myself binge reading her other books in the near future!

Thank you to St. Martin's Press- Minotaur Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Read more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com

[Paromjit · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sharon Bolton takes us into her northern home territory, Lancashire, inhospitable, unpredictable, often savage, horrifying, but heartbreakingly and wonderfully beautiful. She draws on the areas history of witches with the Pendle witch trials, folklore, legend, and its fear and macabre treatment of intelligent women who dare to be different. Set in Sabden, a town on the edge of Pendle Hill, Bolton combines these themes to give us an outstanding story with elements of horror, the darkest of arts and the supernatural from 1969 and the present, 1999. Assistant Commissioner Florence 'Flossie' Lovelady attends the funeral of funeral director and carpenter, Larry Glassbrook, a man convicted of the murders of 3 teenagers buried alive in 1969. Locals turn out to make clear their disgust and contempt of Glassbrook. Florence is there to lay ghosts of the most horrific of cases that made her career, lost her a finger and pay her respects given her continuing relationship with Larry whilst he served his time in prison. Accompanied by her 15 year son, Ben, she visits the dilapidated Glassbrook home where she was staying as a WPC prior to being forced to leave, and is freaked out when she finds a clay effigy of herself, reminiscent of a voodoo doll. The past casts a dark, disturbing and unsettlingly long shadow into the present as it appears that maybe, just maybe, Larry was innocent of the depraved crimes laid at his doorstep, and the menacing dangers of that period are alive in the here and now.

We go back to the sixties in Sabden where the young, smart and gifted Florence has the temerity to make unwelcome but major contributions in the search for the missing children that lead to major breaks in the investigation. With the exception of DC Tom Devins who supports her, Flossie finds herself derided by the sexist police force, who are of the opinion that she needs to be taught some harsh lessons in how things should be a, and learn what a woman's place is. In a narrative that educates on the differences between coffins and caskets, the body of Patsy Wood is discovered with a clay effigy buried with her. A hard working Flossie looks for any patterns that connect the 3 teenagers and explores the local history of witches, spells, covens, disturbed graves, local elites and the Freemasons determined to hide nefarious activities. The disappearance of another young girl raises tensions skyhigh in a petrified community, although a number of factors differ from the previous killings. The girl is rescued by Flossie, but Flossie's tireless efforts in the case has the town and the police turning against her in an atmosphere of hysteria as she finds herself suspended. In the present, Florence gets reacquainted with a number of locals and Tom Devins, still with the police, whose help she needs as her world falls apart. A frantic and determined Florence has to dig into her deepest inner resources to fight the malignant dark forces aligned against her and her family.

Sharon Bolton weaves a superb spine chilling and harrowing tale that draws on the darkest myths and legends of the British Isles. In true Bolton style, the plotting is impressive and the twists are jaw dropping, and although this is hard to believe given the quality of her previous works, she just keeps on getting better and better. Bolton's creation of Flossie captures the attitudes, culture and prejudices of a police force and a nation of a particular time and period. Women who step out of the norms and expectations of a society still continue to be treated as witches and deserving of the worst of abuse as we can see from the treatment meted out to women by men in areas such as social media. I have no hesitation in highly recommending this latest utterly gripping, creepy and compelling novel from a gifted storyteller. Many thanks to Orion for an ARC.

[Kaceey · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5*

Do you believe in magic? Dark Magic?

If you’ve ever had the good fortune to read anything from Sharon Bolton, then you know how innovative her writing can be. How descriptive her prose is. A simple thriller blossoms into a literary gem. This one is among her best!

Assistant Commissioner Florence Lovelady returns to Pendle Hill, Lancashire for the funeral of Larry Glassbrook. In her heart she feels this is the end of a long, dragged-out nightmare, finally putting all the demons to rest. Mr. Glassbrook is the convicted killer of 3 young teenagers. Buried them alive. Monster. Now in the light of justice, it’s his turn to be buried.

Unbelievably, Florence has just turned up clues that lead in another direction. What?
So…is the killer still out there? Or is there something more sinister playing out?

Told in two timelines:
1969 - when Florence was a fresh-faced rookie with the police department. Starting out in an already tough profession dominated by men, determined to prove she belongs.
1999 - as Florence returns for the funeral. Now the highest ranking female, she’s built a solid foundation within the police force. But still unsettled, she’s driven to see this burial through in order to move on.

I know I’m in for a spectacular read when picking up a book from Sharon Bolton. Always pulling the reader deep into the story-line and holding you there on pins and needles, flying through the pages. You’ll easily lose track of time as you find yourself reading deep into the night. Glorious, right?!

A little on the darker side. A fair dose of creepy, but not overly. (Thank goodness!) I could actually feel my heart racing while reading this book.
The ending... well let’s just say I was left with chills running up my spine!

Highly recommend!

A fantastic and thrilling buddy read with Susanne!

Thank you to Jordan Hanley and Allison Ziegler at St Martin’s Press for an advanced copy to read and review.

[Regina · Rating 5 out of 5]

As I’ve been working my way through my annual October spooky reading binge, I’ve been pondering the intersection of the thriller and horror genres. It seems thrillers are getting increasingly darker, violent, and gory, so what is the line that must be crossed to earn a classification as horror?

I think I found it in Sharon Bolton’s fantastic 2018 novel, The Craftsman. The line, as it happens, is six feet under, tied to the concept of being buried alive. With a dead body. By a serial killer. I mean honestly, what could be scarier?

I tried reading The Craftsman when it first came out but didn’t make it past the first chapter. The concept of teenagers being buried alive was just too dark at that moment in my life, but apparently I’ve built up a creep-factor callus over the years as thriller writers get more and more depraved.

The marvel of this particular novel is that it seems to begin at the end. It opens in 1999 at the funeral of coffin-maker Larry Grassbrook, confessed and convicted murderer. Victims’ parents spit on his grave, still mourning the death of their children 30 years before. The woman who put him behind bars joins them in this scene, then readers are taken back to the 1969 when she was investigating the crimes. I was amazed at how invested I was in what was going to happen given that the mystery had already been solved.

The Craftsman is utterly captivating and an absolute perfect read for the Halloween season. There are elements of witchcraft, though nothing supernatural. Who needs ghouls and goblins when humans - and the vile things they do to one another - are scary enough?

4.5 stars

Blog: https://www.confettibookshelf.com/

[MarilynW · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Craftsman by Sharon Bolton
narrated by Nathalie Buscombe

This is my first book by Sharon Bolton and it worked very well for me. The audiobook is fantastic, the atmosphere is so very disturbing, and the mention of folklore got to me in a way that doesn't usually happen. If I were there, I'd be a believer. I'd also probably leave and never come back.

We start in 1999 with the funeral of a serial killer. Florence Lovelady is back after thirty years and the events that put the serial killer in prison. Her fifteen year old son, Ben, is with her and I really like him. He is a wise fifteen year old and his mom would do well to listen to his advice.

Then we go back to 1969 and the beginning of Florence's career in this small town. Three teens are missing and real leads are scarce. It'd be very convenient to say they ran away together and leave it at that. But Florence can't do that, she has intuition that tells her to keep looking. Call it a gut feeling, but she has to keep "digging". Her co-workers all hate her, she's not really good at saying the right thing to people, she's looked down on as being too posh, might as well just keep blundering on and get herself in more hot water.

Florence stirs up things that brings lurking evil to the surface. It's been there all this time but the evil powers that be have kept awareness of it tamped down. Things get more and more sinister the more we learn, the more we know. People have been hurt and more people are going to be hurt. It seems we are in a living nightmare.

[Christina Loeffler · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5, a casket and a coffin are DEFINITELY NOT the same thing stars!!!

Full review featured on my blog Recipe and a Read!

Creepy. Sinister. Haunting. These are the words that come to mind when I think about reading The Crafstman by Sharon Bolton. A true master of her craft, Bolton has woven a truly shocking, original and surprising thriller perfect for the witching season.

We're gonna party like it's 1999. JUST KIDDING - we're going to dredge up old crimes as Florence Lovelady attends the funeral of prolific serial killer (who, just FYI, killed his teenage victims by - I shit you not - burying them alive). I don't know about any of you, but for me, this is a true nightmare realized. Attending this funeral opens old wounds and we flashback to WPI Lovelady's past and her hunt for Larry Glassbrook. In the present, Florence "Flossie" Lovelady finds a clay effigy of herself - bound and tortured. With this, we set off on a multilayered and twisted tale of an incredibly sadistic villain.

I wonder what words his headstone might carry: Loving husband, devoted father, merciless killer.

In traditional mystery/thriller fashion we're given alternating timelines. The present taking place in 1999 and the past taking place in 1969 where Florence is the first female police officer in Sabden. Not only is Lovelady highly educated - seen as pompous and snooty - but she has to fight the inherent sexism involved in becoming the first female on the force. Unlike many other female protagonists in these types of stories Florence is not battling personal demons and hangups. She is a genuinely likable and competent MC and it among many other aspects of this read were incredibly refreshing.

In 1969 three teenage children have all gone missing without a trace. The police force, the town and all of its citizens are in a tizzy to uncover what has happened. Following a hunch, Lovelady discovers the body of Patsy (the most recent missing child) has been buried alive in a recent grave. Only after exhuming the body do they discover the clay effigy made of Patsy - depicting her torture. The exact same type of effigy Florence finds in the dilapidated previous home of the killer in 1999.

The words 'coffin' and 'casket' are used interchangeably, but the two are quite different. A coffin is a six or eight-sided box that follows the contours of the body: narrow at the head, widening at the shoulders, tapering in again towards the feet. Think Dracula rising. A casket is bigger, rectangular, usually with a large curved lid.

The crafting of this story shows Bolton's immense skill. It's nearly impossible to not be drawn into the web woven here almost immediately. The sinister undertones taking place throughout this story are truly magnificent. It's an incredibly fast paced and truly surprising story from start to finish. Frivolous red-herrings this story does not have - what it deals out in spades is pure and utter suspicion for anyone you encounter along the way.

While both timelines are set in the past, this story is incredibly relevant to today's societal climate. I've said it before and I'm sure I'll say it again: I love a strong, kick-ass, female lead and The Crafstman absolutely delivers that with Florence Lovelady. Her character is multi-faceted and definitely not one-dimensional. However, as I mentioned previously her dimension doesn't rely on the typical "unreliable, damaged female" lead and while I don't always mind this and sometimes I quite enjoy it, it's always nice to break from the typical.

"Except, according to gran, it wasn't only about upsetting people... She said the witches needed body parts to make their spells work."

Not only is this a great police procedural, but what you might not be able to tell from the synopsis is that there is a supernatural aspect to this as well. While some write off fantasy / supernatural reads because it's not their own genre, or harder to fall into I can assure you that all lovers of mystery / thrillers would enjoy this. It isn't over done or misplaced - I was not only surprised by the inclusion of the Pendle Witch Trials did not detract from the overlying story line it only added to it. The historical information added in created a rich and exciting atmosphere that was difficult to draw myself away from.

All in all, I was incredibly impressed not only with the writing of this story but the development of the characters, the setting and the history. If you have any interest in police procedural, historical fiction or some light supernatural vibes I couldn't suggest this one enough! I'm not going to call this one fun because it's incredibly dark but I enjoyed myself and was rapt the entire time I read this!

I read this with the Traveling Sisters and for the most part we've all really enjoyed it! It was a quick and exciting read!!

[BernLuvsBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Craftsman is a chilling, atmospheric read involving magic, witches, power, evil & missing children. Did that grab your attention? It absolutely grabbed mine too!

1969 - Florence Lovelady is a young police officer struggling to be accepted by her fellow officers in Lancashire. There are several missing children in Pendle Hill and Florence working the case, finds the body of 13 year old Patsy Wood buried alive. Local funeral director and master carpenter Larry Glassbrook is arrested and sentenced to prison for the heinous crimes.

1999 - 30 years later Florence returns to Lancashire for Larry's funeral. Facing nightmarish memories and old demons Florence revisits the 1969 crimes. She finds herself questioning the old case when she uncovers a recently placed effigy, complete with her missing finger in the grounds of Glassbrook's family home. Could they have gotten it all wrong thirty years ago?

Uncovering the truth becomes a life or death mission for Florence. One seeped in mystical mystery and treachery at the hands of powerful, sadistic villains who will stop at nothing to achieve their dark desires.

The Craftsman was a dark, chilling and atmospheric mystery. This was my first Sharon Bolton read but it definitely won't be my last. Thank you to Sharon Bolton, St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for an arc of this amazing read!

[Norma ~ The Sisters · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whoa! That was one awesome read.....and because I can’t help myself! Holy Shooty Balls that was some book!!

Chilling, gripping & unputdownable!

I absolutely loved this book and it was definitely my kind of story! I love creepy suspenseful books with supernatural aspects to it and this one definitely satisfied my craving for an excellent spooky, spine-chilling and suspenseful read!

THE CRAFTSMAN by SHARON BOLTON is a dark, disturbing, tension-filled and an absolutely fantastic psychological thriller that had me totally engrossed, entertained and interested throughout this entire book. I was immediately drawn into this story and not once did I lose interest. In fact it had me on the edge of my seat with feelings of excitement and uncertainty right from the very start and in the end I was totally blown away by that ending.

SHARON BOLTON delivers an impressive, original, clever, atmospheric, suspenseful, twisty and well-written read here with the perfect mix of intrigue, suspense, mystery, and the supernatural. Bolton captures the essence of these characters and the eerie setting perfectly.

I thoroughly enjoy Bolton’s writing style and absolutely loved how this story unfolded. It opens up in the present, 1999 and then switches narrative to 1969 through flashbacks and then back to the present, 1999. This was an extremely effective way to set the mood and keep the suspense and tension high.

It was one of those books that definitely cast its spell on me and the witchcraft and supernatural aspects to this story was absolutely spellbinding.

*Traveling Sisters Read*

Norma’s Stats:
Cover: Creepy, sinister, piqued my interest, and fitting.
Title: Oh what an absolutely brilliant title and loved how it played into the storyline.
Writing/Prose: Well-written, compelling, stunning, and proficient.
Plot: Suspenseful, creepy, darkly gothic, supernatural, witchcraft, unsettling, fast-paced, enjoyable and extremely entertaining. I loved this brilliant original storyline!
Ending: Totally shocking and jaw-dropping! I must have read those last few sentences over about 10 times because that is how stupefied I was! I loved it!
Overall: A riveting read that was perfect for the Halloween season. One of my favourite books of the year and was quickly placed into my favourite reads shelf for 2018! Would highly recommend!

Thank you so much to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press / Minotaur Books and Sharon Bolton for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book in exchange for a review!

Review can also be found on our Two Sisters Lost in a Coulee Reading book blog:
https://twosisterslostinacoulee.com/

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly, my own mind scares the crackers out of me sometimes.

And the extremely talented Sharon Bolton just handed off her latest offering served with a double heaping scoop of CREEP on steroids. She's outdone herself in this one, folks. Welcome to the crackling side of things that go bump in the night.

Assistant Commissioner Florence Lovelady is a bright and shiny twenty-two year old assigned to the police force in Sabden in Lancashire across from Pendle Hill. It's 1969 and women on the force are as welcome as hives on your wedding day. "The Boys" seem to derive pleasure from putting her in her place and motioning to the kettle that needs attention for tea. Then and now, women with intelligence can be a dangerous thing......

When a call comes in that teenage Patsy Wood is missing, Florence's suggestions for hitting the trail fast and furious seem to hit concrete walls from the higher ups. DC Tom Devins appears to be the only one on the force who has Florence's back. While interviewing children in the neighborhood, Florence is shaken by what they tell her. Last night they heard voices calling out from the cemetery behind their yard. Their father insists that they've always been truthful. But the police scoff at the notion. Here's where we find out just how determinded ol' Florence can be.

After tossing and turning in her bed, Florence dresses quietly and leaves the room that she rents from the Glasscock family. She grabs a shovel from the shed. Yep! Florence starts digging her way into the newly dug grave. Tom Devins shows up and helps her with the omnious task. Both know what this could do to their careers.

And here's where the visuals start marching up and down inside the corridors of your mind. What makes the little beads of sweat form on your top lip? The thought of being buried alive! And yes, poor Patsy is discovered in the casket. She never had a chance. Within the casket, they found a clay effigy. (Believe me, this brought back nightmares of True Detectives with Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson.) Then two more teenagers go missing. And just like we all know: After midnight, clowns aren't funny. The creep starts to overflow the surface in torrents.

Fast forward to 1999. Florence is returning to Sabden for the funeral of Larry Glasscock. She's been visiting him all these years after he was convicted of three murders. Larry was part owner of the funeral home and had access to the cemetery at will. His own confession put him behind bars. No other murders ocurred. But something gnaws at Florence. Did they get the right person?

Sharon Bolton slips on her research gloves and presents quite the storyline. She even slides in a coven of witches on the outer periphery that will certainly get your attention. Her character of Florence is amazing. Don't call her Flossie like "The Boys". And don't have her hold up her hand and count how many fingers that she sees. More on that later, dear readers, much later. A stunning read that shouldn't be missed.

I received a copy of The Craftsman through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Minotaur Books and to the talented Sharon Bolton for the opportunity.

[Miriam Smith (A Mother’s Musings) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Oh how I enjoyed "The Craftsman" by popular and well respected author Sharon Bolton. Excellently written, well plotted and superbly crafted, this is an 'unputdownable' book that I thoroughly enjoyed from start to finish.
I was particularly interested in the open letter at the start to readers by the author. It had me very intrigued as to what the story was going to be about as I have always had an interest in the history of witches and this certainly peaked my curiosity.
The story starts by getting right into what happened in 1969 with subject matter I defy anyone to not be their worst nightmare. The depth of harrowing description by the author was truly frightening and I could imagine every horrifying detail and terrifying second of Patsy's ordeal.
'June 1969 - 13-year- old Patsy Wood has been missing for two days, the third teenager to disappear in as many months. New to the Lancashire police force and struggling to fit in, WPC Florence Lovelady is sent to investigate an unlikely report from school children claiming to have heard a voice calling for help. A voice from deep within a recent grave.'
Florence (Flossie) suffered permanently from sexual discrimination, harassment and rudeness towards her, even brutality from the public (typical culture of the era set) and I'm not sure I'd have been able to put up with it all myself, considering she was so young too. I admired her for her hard work and determination to continue and her ability to rise above all the sarcasm and put downs. This enabled her to do her job so successfully and her strength of character made for a very enjoyable and inspiring read.
The wonderful descriptions of the Lancashire countryside were truly beautiful and set the scene for the novel perfectly. The tension at the end was palpable, there was no way I was going to be able to put the book down until I'd completely finished it and oh my! What a twist to the end. Brilliant! Fantastic storyline too throughout that has obviously had a lot of planning, research and thought go into it. All in all a very, very good read that's utterly spellbinding and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend!
My hardback copy had an fabulously designed cover too, it certainly conveys the message of creepiness and fear, exactly what would draw you to a book and it didn't disappoint. I'll remember reading this impressive book for a long time and do hope there's more to come from Flossie in the future. I have read Sharon's books before and have always enjoyed them - with this one definitely being my favourite so far - and will continue to read her stories, each one is so very well written and well worth the time to read!

5 well deserved stars!

Quick read prequel to The Craftsman 'Alive' available on Amazon - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Alive-Sharon...

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sharon Bolton has a little gem on her hands with The Craftsman! When I first heard she was switching publishers in order to write a very different book near and dear to her heart, I was worried. Especially when I heard it involved witchcraft. Not my thing. I found out it IS my thing though when Ms. Bolton writes about it.

This one started out slow for me. The year is 1999, and I felt like I was missing a lot of background (which obviously I was) and was confused early on. Then the book moves into police procedural mode 30 years earlier when our protagonist, WPC Florence (aka “don’t call me Flossie”) Lovelady, tries to break into the man’s world of law enforcement. She must be better than the boys to survive this scene. She is paired with DC Tom Devine at the bottom of the totem pole to work on a strange case of multiple child abductions.

The story takes place in Ms. Bolton’s stomping grounds, The North Country. Witch Country. As always, our author sets the scene beautifully, giving us a rich atmosphere in which to immerse ourselves. If I had to describe it in one word, I would call it sinister, very sinister.
We meet an array of very curious (for us) characters. No cardboard cutouts for Ms. Bolton. I became nicely unconfused during this section and enjoyed the throwback era of policing. Surprisingly, I also enjoyed learning about British witchcraft, which is different than I had imagined.

The timeline is divided into three parts. The first and third parts are set in 1999. The middle part takes place in 1969. This actually works well except for what I mentioned above.

Wow, and the plot! Ms. Bolton shines like Venus when it comes to writing a plotline. She ranks with the very best. Now you have to be ready to take a bit of unbelievability. I have noted this with all of Ms. Bolton’s books, most of which received 5 stars from me. Skirting the edge is just her way, and I’m happy to go with it. And yes, at the end I did have a WTF moment. And that very very end. I’m talking the last couple of sentences. Awesome!

Now I could knock a star off for the weak bit of romance (not too fleshed out, Ms. Bolton), the confusing start (maybe it was just me because I am old), the slowish pace of the middle 1969 section, and the WTF denouement, but I’m not gonna because the plot itself deserves more than five stars. Furthermore, I was guessing right and left the entire way and was bamboozled at the end. So it clearly averages out to at least five stars. So there. I also really appreciate the fact that Ms. Bolton went out on a loooong limb to change publishers and write a story so very personal to her. Kudos to my heroine author! I cannot wait to see what she has up her sleeve for her next book. I highly recommend Ms. Bolton’s works to all thriller lovers.

Many thanks to Net Galley, Minotaur Books, and Ms. Sharon Bolton for an ARC of this novel. All opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5*****

“I wonder what words his headstone might carry: Loving husband, devoted father, merciless killer”

It's August 1999 and Florence Lovelady attends the funeral of Larry Glassbrook, a convicted killer she arrested 30 years prior for the murders of three teenagers. These victims were buried alive in coffins... and who has better knowledge of graveyards and caskets than those who work with them!? Larry Glassbrook was the funeral director of the town where these murders took place. Clay effigies of the victims are found in the caskets, in distorted positions and pierced with blackthorn wood, adding to another layer of depravity. When Florence discovers her own effigy at the Glassbrook house shortly after the funeral, she has to look back on the case and whether they caught the right man, or whether there are more dark factors at play and what this means for the town and Commissioner Lovelady.

August 1969 and WPC Florence "Flossie" Lovelady is the only female police constable in a small town. Shes's newly arrived to the Lancashire area when the third victim is discovered. Florence is from the south and went to university, she is an outsider; something very different to those in the town. She has to deal with harassment, sexism, homophobia, as well as a whole host of other things from people in the town, and also from those on the police force, who believe she is too incompetent to take part in a murder investigation due to being a woman. There is often friction between her and those in the police force and town. However, Lovelady is courageous, curious, inquisitive and determined to catch the killer... with her decisions causing her a plethora of consequences. I loved the character of Florence Lovelady as she was flawed, but also had so much courage and determination to figure out the murderer that she she never let the consequences of her actions deter her from continuing her job.

The inspection into the murders first looks like a typical crime procedure, until, when investigating the murders Lovelady hears drums, sees lights in the hills, and with the addition of clay effigy's being found with the bodies, there is soon the discovery of a coven of witches in town... and Lovelady befriends two of them. She soon learns that she has to trust someone when the whole town is against her and this leads to shocking discoveries.

S. J. Bolton does a brilliant job at blending in the witchcraft into the criminal investigation without it seeming too outrageous or "out there". It is a steady mix of the two and it is amazing how the author slips in these dark magical elements... it additionally provided me with a spark of interest to learn more about people who practice witchcraft. S.J Bolton does a great job at going between the two time periods and relating the past to the present. Furthermore, even the descriptions the author uses of the small town created an atmosphere of isolation and unwantedness, adding to the story.

This book had murder, mystery, secret, lies and witchcraft. It was Gothic, gripping and spellbinding and left me wanting more! This was a perfect book to get into the Halloween/fall mood.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars, rounded up

Bolton gets it all right here. The story, the characters, the atmosphere. The area was known for witch trials in the 17 century and a belief in witches still permeates the current century. In 1969, young teenagers are going missing and are found to have been buried alive. WPC Lovelady is the only policewoman in Lancashire and to say she is not a welcome addition to staff is an understatement. Three teenagers have gone missing and the police are at a loss. But Lovelady has ideas, not that they're welcome. “Hiding my thoughts was obviously something I had to work on.”

She continues to put most of the men to shame in the brains department. Tom is the only one willing to see her as an asset and help her along.

The book is also told from the present day, 1999, when Lovelady returns to witness the funeral of the convicted serial killer. She finds an effigy made to look like her and she realizes she most likely helped convict the wrong person.

The suspense here is unnerving. This book just grabs you and doesn’t let you go. The writing perfectly communicates that whole ominous feel. I love how Bolton makes you see how inter-related charges of witchcraft and sexism are. And can I say I did not see that ending coming at all?

Other than one small glitch in the plot, this book would have rated a full five stars.

My thanks to netgalley and St. Martin’s Press for an advance copy of this book.

[Diane S ☔ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Pendle Hill in Lancashire, the site of witches, and one of the most famous witch trials in 1612. Bolton gives us a creepy read, just in time for Halloween. Witches, ghosties, voices from a grave, and things that go bump in the night. Opens with a personal letter from Bolton, explaining why she wrote this, her connection to Pendle. In the present, it begins with a funeral, and then takes the reader back to the late 1960's, where the lone female police woman, Florence Lovelady, becomes embroiled in a case concerning three missing children.

Bolton does a great job with the character of Florence, and her non acceptance by her fellow male officers. Women trying to break into these male dominated careers, had a extremely hard time, but Lovelsdy is no shrinking violet. She is persistent, even when told to step down, and manages to piece together and see patterns that the men cannot. She finds much more than the bargained for, becomes involved in a group that is involved in outwordly matters. The story goes back and forth, and this is handled extremely well, was never confusing. Some very interesting characters who are not who they appear to be. The pace is quick, the reveals timely.

The only thing I had a bit of a problem with, was the ending. Too much, imo, was thrown into the mix and didn't think it was effective. On the whole though, this was a very good thriller, and Bolton fans will find much to like.

ARC from Netgalley.

[Paula K · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic thriller!

I was drawn to reading this book as many friends on Goodreads gave it such high marks. I was not disappointed. Sharon Bolton knows her stuff! A mix of mystery, plenty of suspense, sexism, crime, small town teenage murders, and unbeknownst to me before starting the book - witchcraft.

Written with two timelines, young police detective Florence Lovelady is smart and a force to be reckoned with. The 1969 murders make her career. She comes back in 1999 for the funeral of the man accused of the crimes only to find the past has resurfaced.

I listened to the audiobook in my car, kitchen, and late at night in the living room. Not a book you can put down! This well written thriller has a great plot and many twists and turns.

This won’t be my last Sharon Bolton. The Craftsman is the first in the series and I will look forward to when she writes her follow-up!

5 out of 5 stars

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!!! What an absolutely perfect book to read during the Halloween season! The atmosphere and darkness seem to seep out of the pages.

I'll be honest and say that it took me a beat before I became completely gripped. I was a bit confused in the beginning but once I got my bearings straight there was no stopping me. Short, tension filled chapters had me flying through this one and the last 50 pages or so my heart was truly racing.

A man, Larry Glassbrook, was charged 30 years ago for the murder of three children. He buried them alive and whispers of witchcraft abound.

Florence Lovelady, the arresting officer, has decided to attend his funeral but it seems someone or something doesn't want her to leave town in a hurry and before you know it her son, Ben, has also disappeared like those children long ago.

Is this a copy cat or did they arrest the wrong man? The race is on but you'll have the read it to find out!

Let me say that I adored Florence Lovelady. She is a woman of great intelligence and boundless courage. We got a sneak peak at what it was like for a woman in 1969 to become a police officer at the age of 22. To say that she wasn't treated fairly is an understatement but I LOVED how she never backed down and stayed true to her convictions.

The ending surprised me - I liked it for the most part but I'll admit that there was one thing that bothered me. One thing I just couldn't buy. Other than that this book is chilling, mysterious, and damn near perfect! 4.5 rounding up!

Thanks to the wonderful people at Minotaur Books that kindly sent me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Sunflowerbooklover · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sharon Bolton has climbed her way up my favorite list of authors! Sharon does it again with this one my friends! What a RIDE!!

As always, what a unique and extremely well written web of suspense that Bolton has crafted here with elements of supernatural and witchcraft! I LOVED the aspect of supernatural. I couldn't get enough!!

To all my Bolton fans out there... this is one that you DEFINITELY don't want to miss! Talk about supernatural on crack! Sharon.... you amaze me with your talent and how easily your words capture your readers in such a dark yet poetic way.

In 1999, Florence Loveday returns to Lancashire to attend the funeral of Larry Glassbrook. Larry Glassbrook was a man that committed awful crimes in which Florence had solved. Florence's return causes her to start having flashbacks to her life as a young police officer.

In 1969, the novel explores how Florence's career took off as a young police officer trying to solve a missing case of a 13 year old girl.

The novel alternates between 1969 and 1999.... somehow connecting with Florence's past and the present. Presently, Florence finds an effigy of herself, which is something that those who delve deep into witchcraft use. What exactly does this effigy mean? Loveday soon realizes that the crime she thought she solved so long ago..... may not be what it appears to be.

The Craftsman is such a brilliant web of supernatural, lies, and witchcraft that keeps you wondering what goes bump in the night.

I found it slow and confusing for the first 30 percent... I couldn't keep track of the alternating between present to past... I think this could have been presented a bit more smoothly. But, once I got past the initial beginning I was hooked!

I think what I loved the most about this was the supernatural aspect. Bolton truly handles the witchcraft and supernatural elements with such finesse. AND. that ending... holy shit! Talk about... throwing me for a loop! Damn Bolton.... thanks for adding that unexpected twist at the end!!

Huge thank you to Netgalley and Minotaur books for the opportunity to read this in exchange for my honest thoughts.

4.5 eery stars!!

Expected publication date: 10/16/18
Published to GR: 9/3/18.

[Dennis · Rating 5 out of 5]

ALL THE STARS!

Sharon Bolton's latest release, The Craftsman is her best yet. I am so ready for you all to get hooked by her newest tale—witchcraft, serial killers, children being buried alive—WHAT?! The story starts off in 1999, where serial killer Larry Glassbrook is being laid to rest. After spending 30 years in prison for the murder of three local teenagers back in 1969, Larry's notoriety has not weathered since his arrest. The small town Sabden has never been the same since Larry's havoc with the townsfolk began, but after Larry is buried, the town is put through turmoil once again. Florence Lovelady, the police investigator who was responsible for Larry's arrest, has returned to the town and has been noticing a copycat criminal appearing out of nowhere. This new culprit is repeating the steps that Larry took with his victims, but has now aimed the direction at Florence. Florence is in danger, but who's the person wanting her gone?

I can't stress enough how fully developed the story is in The Craftsman . Bolton's use of witchcraft is masterfully portrayed in the story, without turning to the side of ridiculousness—it's authentic, real, and emotionally driven. The story alternates between 1999 and 1969, so the mystery appears to have subsided because we think we know what happens, but there's a larger force at play here and it'll leave you stunned. While the story does develop into a witchcraft-induced mystery, the bigger theme of family and guardianship will ultimately immerse you into a world you may not know anything about.

The Craftsman is one of my favorite reads that I've read this year, and definitely Bolton's best. If you have ever enjoyed anything that Sharon Bolton's written in the past, you would be a fool to not pick up this story. Thank you Minotaur Books for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. The Craftsman will be released on October 16, 2018—just in time for Halloween.

[Mackenzie - PhDiva Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

A new detective and the first female on the force, a town haunted by a merciless killer, children going missing only to be found in the most horrifying manner, and a mysterious darkness around the town that can only be described as not of this world…

The Craftsman had me convinced that Sharon Bolton somehow new my most secret fears and brought them into this story. This book is positively chilling and expertly crafted. Written primarily in flashback to 1969, the story of the small town of Lancashire, England involves the mysterious disappearances and horrifying murders of teenagers in the town. This is my first novel by Sharon Bolton and I can’t believe that I haven’t read anything by her yet. If you haven’t either, make The Craftsman your first because it is truly mind-blowing!

Find much more about my review and others over on my blog: PhDiva.blog

About the Book

August, 1999
On the hottest day of the year, Assistant Commissioner Florence Lovelady attends the funeral of Larry Glassbrook, the convicted murderer she arrested thirty years earlier. A master carpenter and funeral director, Larry imprisoned his victims, alive, in the caskets he made himself. Clay effigies found entombed with their bodies suggested a motive beyond the worst human depravity.

June, 1969
13-year- old Patsy Wood has been missing for two days, the third teenager to disappear in as many months. New to the Lancashire police force and struggling to fit in, WPC Lovelady is sent to investigate an unlikely report from school children claiming to have heard a voice calling for help. A voice from deep within a recent grave.

August, 1999
As she tries to lay her ghosts to rest, Florence is drawn back to the Glassbrooks' old house, in the shadow of Pendle Hill, where she once lodged with the family. She is chilled by the discovery of another effigy - one bearing a remarkable resemblance to herself. Is the killer still at large? Is Florence once again in terrible danger? Or, this time, could the fate in store be worse than even her darkest imaginings?

Reflection

Not unlike the clay model of the town that is featured so prominently in the solving of this mystery, I felt like I was able to acutely envision the settings in the small town in this book. Bolton is an incredible writer, and she writes a story that is atmospheric, haunting, and rich with well-developed characters. I felt like this book could have been 200 pages longer without drawing out the story at all—there was just so many interesting twists to the story.

Readers of my blog may know by now that I love a little hint of supernatural to my mysteries when it is done well. I like the mysteries that are grounded in reality, but have a tinge of other-worldly darkness creeping in. In The Craftsman, Sharon Bolton absolutely nailed it! She opens with a letter to the reader—that since she grew up she’s always wanted to explore the notion of witchcraft.

This book uses the element of witchcraft perfectly. Just as there is a difference between a haunting and being haunted, there is a difference between witchcraft and witches. The Craftsman showcases how with a turn of the story, a person can find themselves to be the witch—the one being hunted. And then of course we have the magnificent coven in this book. The lurk on the periphery of the story, using their combined force to draw out the truth. I absolutely loved this element, and it made it a perfect October read!

The structure is really something else as well. The book begins in 1999 with the funeral of the town’s most hated resident. Larry was finally captured and sentenced to life in prison. Thirty years later he passed away and Florence returns. And yet, something has been unleashed on the town in the wake of his passing. It feels as though Florence was lured there, though she came of her own volition.

Then the majority of the story takes place in 1969, where teenagers in that phase between childhood and adults are going missing. And when they are discovered it is in the most horrible way—locked inside of intricately-crafted, ornate coffins with another body inside and buried 6 feet beneath the ground, the satin lining torn to shreds as they try to claw their way out.

Did you get chills from that description? That is only the beginning of their horrifying deaths. Of course, you’ll have to read yourself to find out what I mean! Let me say this—there is physical horror and psychological horror, and Bolton shows you that just when you think nothing could be worse than the physical horror, you learn the true depths of the monster that did this.

Florence herself is a completely fascinating character. She is tough and by-the-book, whip-smart, and dogged in her pursuit of the truth. And just when you think that she’s invincible, you see the young woman that she truly is—wanting to fit in, connecting with other women who find themselves on the outs in the town, and getting schoolyard crushes. Florence is truly perfect in her contrasts.

This is a book I encourage all psychological thriller fans to try. The ending made me positively gasp with delight, shock, and awe. The last two lines keep replaying through my mind! Every time I think of them, I fall in love with this book all over again. And we are in luck, because I read on Bolton’s website that this is part of a trilogy!!! I cannot wait to read what comes next from her.

I read this with the Traveling Sisters and we were blown away!! Be sure to check out their reviews as well!!!

Thank you to Minotaur Books and St. Martin’s Press for my copy to review.

[Lindsay L · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars.

A suspenseful, chilling and ‘witchy’ story!

This novel follows Assistant Commissioner Florence Lovelady who, as a new police officer in 1969, helped put convicted murderer Larry Glassbrook in prison. Larry, the local funeral director, was found guilty of murdering three local teenagers by burying them alive in caskets he made himself. Florence’s determination and persistent drive to find answers and solve the murders lead her team to the shocking conviction of Larry.

There are two timelines – 1999 and 1969. In 1999, Florence is attending Larry’s funeral in the small town where she brought him to a murder conviction. Here she revisits her old stomping grounds and rehashes long buried memories and secrets. The second timeline in 1969 follows Florence through her introduction into the male dominated police force where she relentlessly works toward proving herself and solving her case. I enjoyed both timelines and felt they flowed and intertwined intriguingly.

I loved Florence’s character! She had an innocence about her but such a strong will and determination to get answers. I was rooting for her from page 1. The ‘witchy’ factor in this novel is quite strong which was perfect for a late October read, however, I found that it did get a little too ‘witchy’ for me in the second half of the book. Some details felt unrealistic and I couldn’t wrap my mind around them causing me to lose some of the connection I felt in the first half. Regardless of this, I still enjoyed the novel and look forward to reading more by this author (this was my first Sharon Bolton).

This was a Traveling Sister read. I was the outlier in the sense that I liked and didn’t love this one. There was much love and dancing in the coulee among the Traveling Sisters discussion for this novel. To find this review, along with the other Traveling Sister reviews, please visit our blog at:

https://twosisterslostinacoulee.com/2...

Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press and Sharon Bolton for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

The Craftsman is available now!

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

When I’m asked to recommend great crime/mystery books, this author is always on the list. If she wrote a book on installing linoleum, I’d read it. In this outing she branches off in a new direction, adding magic & supernatural elements to the usual mix of crime, mystery & memorable characters.

Florence Lovelady is an Assistant Commisssioner at the Met. Thirty years ago she began as a lowly WPC in Sabden, a northern town in the shadow of Pendle Hill. And it was an infamous murder case there that made her career. Now she’s back. The killer she helped put away in 1969 has finally died in prison & Florence wants to see him go in the ground. Bit ironic as that’s what he did to his victims. The difference is they were alive when he buried them.

As Florence attends the funeral in present day, we get a bare bones history of just what took place all those years ago. We learn she actually boarded with the killer & his family & she can’t resist returning to the now derelict house one more time before she leaves for good. Unfortunately, what she finds there will cause her to question everything she thought she knew & this time it’s her son who will pay.

Not going to blab about the plot too much. As with all Ms. Bolton’s books, it’s best to go in blind for maximum effect. She’s the queen of jaw-droppers & you’ll enjoy it more if you discover things with Florence as she revisits a traumatic past.

The book started a bit slow for me but after the prologue, it shifts to 1969 & we get the full story of Florence’s time in Sabden. From there on it’s a compulsive read as we gradually shift back to events in the present. So many elements contribute to the story. We get a taste of what it was like to be a female cop at that time. The isolation, ridicule & sexism Florence faced on a daily basis will spike your blood pressure. There’s a line in there that goes something like “this is how men act when facing something they fear”. In this case, it’s a smart, resourceful woman who might be a better cop & refuses to just shut up & make tea.

The setting & its history provide the creepy atmosphere that helps propel the story. Witchcraft, brutal murders & a town full of clannish, suspicious people…I couldn’t help but think this place would fit snugly into something written by Stephen King. It’s obvious not all is as it seems in Sabden. There are hints of things commonly known but never spoken of & deeply guarded secrets. The effect is a constant, low level feeling of menace that keeps you slightly off balance & a tad nervy about turning the next page.

Then there are the characters. My favourites included Dwane (not your average sexton) & Avril & Daphne, 2 witches with attitude who I enjoyed much like the nuns in “Dead Woman Walking”. But the star of the show is Florence. What a pleasure to read a female MC who is strong, intelligent & quick on her feet. No histrionics & not given to the dumb decisions that usually have me rolling my eyes in frustration.

It’s so much more than just a whodunit. Personal asides & sub plots flesh out the story & bring the characters to life. From her letter to readers at the beginning, it’s clear this is a book the author has wanted to write for a long time & I hope she’s pleased with the end result. If her goal was to keep me up waaaay too late so I could race through the final pages, mission accomplished. Bring on book #2.

[Brenda ~The Sisters~Book Witch · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sharon Bolton is a favorite author for me and I was really excited to add The Craftsman to the Traveling Sisters group reads. Seven Traveling Sisters joined in on this sister read and a couple sisters have now added Sharon Bolton to there list of favorite authors.

The Craftsman has all the elements here with the atmospheric setting and buried secrets, disturbing and claustrophobic crime, a brew of witches and the supernatural lurching to make this story an entertaining, and deliciously creepy yet disturbing at times story.

The story starts off with an intriguing and creepy scene that sets the story up perfectly. We are then taken back to the past and are drawn into a gruesome and disturbing crime that would have anyone feeling claustrophobic. We start to get to know our main character Florence and loved how different she is from other female characters in a police procedural. She is fierce, strong and independent at a time when women were treated like they shouldn’t be. She faces challenges here with strength and determination. She is driven not by her own personal demons but by her independence and need to prove herself.

We all loved the setting here with the small town and its mysterious characters and the buried secrets they hold. The setting comes alive with its spine-chilling danger and we could feel the terror the characters felt in this story. We loved the real danger and the magical and supernatural danger to the story.

We highly recommend this one to thrillers lovers looking for a little something different. You will be sure to read something different here with this story.

Thank you to NetGalley, St Martin's Press and Sharon Bolton for a copy to read and review

https://twosisterslostinacoulee.com/2...

[Kristin (KC) · Rating 4 out of 5]

RTC...

*Traveling Sisters Read*

[Maureen Carden · Rating 5 out of 5]

With The Craftsman I think Sharon Bolton has jumped into Stephen King territory of horror and left him behind. Shocking and heartbreaking, this is a compelling story of a place, a people and a great many tragedies. It is also the story of a love that will last for eternity.
The Craftsman is set in Lancashire with the double time-line of 1969 and 1999.
Lancashire is an unusual, isolated area of England, visitors are mostly drawn by the harsh beauty or the dark history of the Pendle witches. The great Pendle Hill rises in its single majesty from flat ground and dominates the area,. Folklore says those who are born within sight of the Pendle Hill, are baptized once in a Christian Church, and once in the great Black Tarn to serve another, darker master. The appalling, well- documented history of the Pendle witch trials and consequent hangings have always fascinated people. Some of the residents of the surrounding area take their fascination deeper.
In 1969 WPC Florence Loveday is assigned to the Sabden police department. .Her assignment and working conditions with the misogynist men are the first horror Bolton documents. Florence brings a bit of the mistreatment on herself as she is well educated which she isn’t afraid to demonstrate and from what her co-workers consider a posh background. Most everything she does is resented; especially when she gets results.
She does have a few defenders including DC Tom Devine and Superintendent Rushton but they too will leave her in the lurch at times.
In 1969 children of the town of Sabden are disappearing. Disappearing children are a re-occurring theme for Bolton. What could be more terrifying and heartbreaking for a community? What else could permanently change a town.
Florence is added to the investigating team. Florence may piss people off, but she is stubborn and refuses to alter her path. During the investigation Florence is lucky enough to meet the women who aid her and whose influence will continue throughout her life. Eventually undertaker Larry Glassbrook is arrested and spends the rest of his life in prison.
In first section of The Craftsman Florence returns for Glassbrook’s funeral. She has visited him while he was in prison; hoping he will reveal the motivations for the crimes.
After the funeral, Florence goes to visit the property where she first lodged with the Glassbrook family. While there she decides to honor an old belief that the hive bees must be told all the important news. At first the hives seem deserted but then Florence finds a clay picture- aka effigy- of herself, leading her to the horrifying belief the wrong man might have been convicted. Florence sees the clay picture as a taunting message, a challenge to finally put this case, and the murdered children to rest.
The second part of the book returns to Sabden in 1969 for the investigation. In this section Bolton closely details how one of the victims suffered. This is very important to closely read, don’t skim as I did in my first reading. I really thought Bolton went overboard until I finally realized the importance of this section.
The third section returns to 1999 Sabden. The case has made WPC Florence Lovelady’s career, in 1999 she is the highest ranking woman in the Met. Florence has come back, both for the funeral and to show her fifteen year old son, Ben, an important part of her life.
Florence’s tenacity and her integrity come to the fore; if the wrong man has been convicted, she must do whatever is necessary to right a terrible wrong no matter the cost. But then Florence finds there is a limit to what she is willing to pay. In the first investigation Florence suffered dreadfully, in the second it looks like there is again going to be a terrible price to pay.
Bolton is a master of her craft. Once again she shocks her readers; never leading them astray, but not providing a straight path either. But, I have ended up with a few questions. I found a few parts of the book to be unclear. I’m not taking a star because of the overall quality.
There is a strong paranormal aspect to The Craftsman, but Bolton makes it organic to the story.
This is the area where Sharon Bolton was born and grew up. Small wonder her early books earned her the title of Queen of the Rural Gothic. Bolton has gone beyond her earlier title and moved onto being the Empress of the Rural Gothic.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for and honest review.

[Liz Barnsley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This may be the best book Ms Bolton has written to date. It is CERTAINLY the creepiest keep you up all night subtly scary novel I have read in a long time.

Set in the 70’s and later on the cusp of the new millennium, the story follows Florence, a policewoman in a small northern town where children are disappearing. Their fate becomes intertwined with her fate and Sharon Bolton weaves a tense and deeply atmospheric tale around her characters and her location.

I don’t think that last line will stop haunting me for a while.

Absolutely spot on in every single way, the sense of time is perfect, Florence as a character is intriguing and definitely divisive enough to keep you engaged all the way – during those moment’s you are not hiding in a cupboard that is – and there are a few of those…

The storytelling has an urban legend vibe of the type parents tell their children- don’t be naughty or The Craftsman will get you – but done with beautifully exquisite descriptive prose that just gets right under your skin and settles there, leaving you randomly nervous when night starts to fall. The tense mystery elements are cleverly done – was the right killer caught or is The Craftsman still out there – as you go between past and “present” nothing is predictable and in the underneath of it all lies that prickling sense of fear ingrained in us all.

I loved it. The Craftsman had me waking up at all hours for nights after I’d finished it, sure there was something waiting there in the dark. The ending, as I said, was elegantly done for maximum effect, as if the rest of it wasn’t enough and these are the kind of reads I live for.

Utterly gripping, eerie and sublime, The Craftsman is simply superb. He WILL come for you….

Highly Recommended.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you thought Sharon Bolton was a brilliant author well let me tell you she has out done herself with The Craftsmen firstly let me say the cover when I picked it up was so creepy but beautiful Gold embossed with a coffin in the background doesn't that creep you out?
Let me say it was dark but beautifully crafted & atmospheric it gave me chills reading it , the pacing was exceptional & loved the characters especially Florence Lovelady who is struggling to getahead in the police force back in 1969. The story is told by Florence recollection of the time back then to the present in 1999.


Florence Lovelady returns to her hometown of Lancashire for the funeral of the man she sent to prison 30 years earlier & how spellbinding it was there were very dark moments in the book which had me gasping Pendle is witch country & children were always taken during the dark phase of the moon buried alive & tortured each found with an effigy hog tying of hands & feet reflects the inability to move in the caskets& with every clay effigy were buried with them.


Detective Tom Devine helps Florence bust the case wide open, let me say I loved Florence's story it was beautifully written Tom & Florence were a perfect partnership I also loved Avril & Daphne members of the local coven they were so beautifully written.



Sharon Bolton starts with a note to her readers about how this story came about which set up the premise all I can say is there was black magic, confined spaces & torture so if your not into that sort of book leave this but Miss Bolton is going to have to come up with something to better this highly reccomened.

[Zoeytron · Rating 4 out of 5]

Copy furnished by Net Galley for the price of a review.

The ins and outs of coffins and caskets, clay effigies, abandoned bee hives, and the wonder of small things.  Patterns, phases of the moon, and a librarian with big yellow teeth and frightening eyebrows.  Thirty years have passed since a serial killer was put behind bars, and now he is dead.  So why are doubts resurfacing now?  A most satisfying ending, last two lines were pure magic.  The author knows her craft well, and for me this was a spellbinding read.