What do you think?
Rate this book
The Working Girls #3
Crystal
THE PIMP.
When Crystal's pimp, protector and former lover, Gilly, dies of a drugs overdose Crystal is bereft. She refuses the paid protection of a rival pimp, determined to go it alone. But a vicious beating from a client leaves her feeling vulnerable and angry.
THE JUDGE.
Meanwhile, Crystal's daughter, Candice, is asking difficult questions about her job. Crystal decides it's time to make some changes, and, when a high-profile judge offers her payment to keep schtum about his nefarious activities, it gives her an idea. Perhaps other clients will also pay for her silence...
THE REVENGE.
Crystal engages on a revenge mission to rob, blackmail and expose her most depraved clients. But some of these men are highly dangerous and, if Crystal wants to exact her plan of revenge, she must accept the risks that go with it.
Heather Burnside is back with this breath-taking, heart-racing series, perfect for all fans of Kimberley Chambers and Martina Cole.
370 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 7, 2020
160 people are currently reading
94 people want to read
About the author
Heather Burnside
29 books121 followersHeather Burnside is a Manchester based author whose novels are set in her home city. She has published fifteen gritty urban crime novels to date most of which have become Amazon Category Bestsellers.
More recently Heather has written two psychological thrillers, which will be published in 2026. She is currently working on her third psychological thriller.
Before writing novels, Heather completed a creative writing course. During that time, she had various articles published in well-known UK magazines and went on to run a writing services business.
Her novels include: The Riverhill Trilogy, The Manchester Trilogy, The Working Girls Series of five novels, and four standalone novels.
You can find out more about Heather’s books by signing up to her mailing list at: http://eepurl.com/CP6YP to receive regular updates, or by viewing her website: www.heatherburnside.com.
More recently Heather has written two psychological thrillers, which will be published in 2026. She is currently working on her third psychological thriller.
Before writing novels, Heather completed a creative writing course. During that time, she had various articles published in well-known UK magazines and went on to run a writing services business.
Her novels include: The Riverhill Trilogy, The Manchester Trilogy, The Working Girls Series of five novels, and four standalone novels.
You can find out more about Heather’s books by signing up to her mailing list at: http://eepurl.com/CP6YP to receive regular updates, or by viewing her website: www.heatherburnside.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
January 7, 2021
4☆ A Gritty and Suspenseful Read.
I'm a huge fan of Heather's books and so far loved all the working girl series but this one for me wasn't my favourite I'm afraid. It still was a blooming good read.
Crystal was a working girl. After a terrifying ordeal she decides that enough is enough. She needs to put an end to her drugs and career choice and focus on her daughter Candice.
But in order to get out the game, Crystal needs to take charge, get revenge and so she steals something belonging to a very very dangerous man Justin. Who really does have his fingers in too many pies.
So she sets out to Blackmail those who have hurt her the most, some she's successful... that is until she crosses Justin!
It all comes to a dramatic end when he kidnaps Candice ( Crystal's young Daughter) and Crystal finally realises she's in too deep and maybe the revenge she so desperately craves isn't worth risking her Daughter’s Life!
But can Crystal find her before it's too late!
I loved seeing all the other characters make appearances especially Ruby, that was nice to see. Once again Ruby is a rock to Crystal.
This book for me was very different from the previous ones. I felt some of the storyline dragged on a little bit too much. Yes the plot was a really strong one and did have suspense and gripping scenes but I just didn't warm to Crystal this time round! I found her to be a little annoying.
But this is in no way a negative, Heather Burnside is a superb author and she has written another Gritty and Compulsive read and I can't wait to read the next installment. Which I'm about to start!
Although this book can definitely be read as a standalone there are a few strands of storyline and characters that make an appearance so I would recommend reading them in order, but it doesn't matter if you haven't!
Thank you to Aria Fiction for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2021/0...
I'm a huge fan of Heather's books and so far loved all the working girl series but this one for me wasn't my favourite I'm afraid. It still was a blooming good read.
Crystal was a working girl. After a terrifying ordeal she decides that enough is enough. She needs to put an end to her drugs and career choice and focus on her daughter Candice.
But in order to get out the game, Crystal needs to take charge, get revenge and so she steals something belonging to a very very dangerous man Justin. Who really does have his fingers in too many pies.
So she sets out to Blackmail those who have hurt her the most, some she's successful... that is until she crosses Justin!
It all comes to a dramatic end when he kidnaps Candice ( Crystal's young Daughter) and Crystal finally realises she's in too deep and maybe the revenge she so desperately craves isn't worth risking her Daughter’s Life!
But can Crystal find her before it's too late!
I loved seeing all the other characters make appearances especially Ruby, that was nice to see. Once again Ruby is a rock to Crystal.
This book for me was very different from the previous ones. I felt some of the storyline dragged on a little bit too much. Yes the plot was a really strong one and did have suspense and gripping scenes but I just didn't warm to Crystal this time round! I found her to be a little annoying.
But this is in no way a negative, Heather Burnside is a superb author and she has written another Gritty and Compulsive read and I can't wait to read the next installment. Which I'm about to start!
Although this book can definitely be read as a standalone there are a few strands of storyline and characters that make an appearance so I would recommend reading them in order, but it doesn't matter if you haven't!
Thank you to Aria Fiction for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2021/0...
May 6, 2020
The 3rd in ‘The Working Girls’ series, Crystal can easily be read as a stand alone or also after ‘The Mark’ and ‘Ruby’
Crystal is a working girl, a prostitute and she has had enough, enough of her life and more than enough of the men who treat her less than human in her profession....she makes a decision, she is going to come off drugs and give up ‘the game’ and make a decent life for herself and her daughter Candice
This though is easier said than done of course so she decides to get some cash behind her, she is going to blackmail some of her worst clients, the violent, the weird and the downright nasty and turn the tables on them, now she is in charge and they will do her bidding
But by doing this she is opening a can of worms ( and cockroaches! ) as some of these men fight back and Crystal is soon involved in a fight to save the thing that is most precious to her
And fight she does, tooth and nail
I LOVE this series ( and the authors previous series’ ) everything you want for a top notch gritty driven story is there and the book flows with a tense exciting plot coupled with no holds barred realism
The blackmailing chapters were really well done, listing the client, what they had done to cause her hatred and then the blackmail itself, sometimes successful, sometimes...well you will see what happens when you read the book
A thrilling ending, I expected nothing less and a really well presented story that saw folk getting their comeuppance and Crystal battle against all odds, great read
10/10
5 Stars
Crystal is a working girl, a prostitute and she has had enough, enough of her life and more than enough of the men who treat her less than human in her profession....she makes a decision, she is going to come off drugs and give up ‘the game’ and make a decent life for herself and her daughter Candice
This though is easier said than done of course so she decides to get some cash behind her, she is going to blackmail some of her worst clients, the violent, the weird and the downright nasty and turn the tables on them, now she is in charge and they will do her bidding
But by doing this she is opening a can of worms ( and cockroaches! ) as some of these men fight back and Crystal is soon involved in a fight to save the thing that is most precious to her
And fight she does, tooth and nail
I LOVE this series ( and the authors previous series’ ) everything you want for a top notch gritty driven story is there and the book flows with a tense exciting plot coupled with no holds barred realism
The blackmailing chapters were really well done, listing the client, what they had done to cause her hatred and then the blackmail itself, sometimes successful, sometimes...well you will see what happens when you read the book
A thrilling ending, I expected nothing less and a really well presented story that saw folk getting their comeuppance and Crystal battle against all odds, great read
10/10
5 Stars
May 7, 2020
Crystal is the third instalment in the Working Girls series of gangland crime thrillers set in and around the city of Manchester, and although preferable it certainly isn't essential to have read the previous books before this one as it works perfectly well as a standalone, as do each of the instalments. Crystal is understandably distraught at the death of her pimp and long-term partner, Gilly, and looking for an out she turns to drink and drugs to ease some of her emotional pain. But this has not escaped the notice of those close to her; her best friend and confidante Ruby starts to become extremely concerned for Crystal's wellbeing. She is luckily very self-aware and realises these behaviours cannot last if she wishes to be a good parent to her daughter, Candice. A plan forms in her mind whilst spending a fortnight in rehab to blackmail some of her clients; those she wishes to get revenge against in the hopes of starting a business with the proceeds. Blackmailing a bunch of men and requiring payment not to spill their dirty secrets, what could possibly go wrong!?
The most addictive of the instalments so far has everything you could want in a thriller - plenty of excitement, danger around every corner, engaging family relationships and a gutsy, intriguing cast of characters. The pacey narrative flows effortlessly which means you may intend to only read a couple of chapters before bed but will find yourself unable to sleep until you've read right through to the end as you're desperate to see how things pan out for Crystal; she's a sassy and relatable person and despite her line of work she has a tonne of self-respect. I strongly feel this is the most compulsive and compelling to date and it tells the story of a character we have met previously in the other novels - Crystal - as her life slowly begins to unravel. It is a gripping, compulsive and entertaining thriller and a great read for those looking for escapism and to enter a completely different world to their own for a while. A real page-turner. Highly recommended. Many thanks to Aria for an ARC.
The most addictive of the instalments so far has everything you could want in a thriller - plenty of excitement, danger around every corner, engaging family relationships and a gutsy, intriguing cast of characters. The pacey narrative flows effortlessly which means you may intend to only read a couple of chapters before bed but will find yourself unable to sleep until you've read right through to the end as you're desperate to see how things pan out for Crystal; she's a sassy and relatable person and despite her line of work she has a tonne of self-respect. I strongly feel this is the most compulsive and compelling to date and it tells the story of a character we have met previously in the other novels - Crystal - as her life slowly begins to unravel. It is a gripping, compulsive and entertaining thriller and a great read for those looking for escapism and to enter a completely different world to their own for a while. A real page-turner. Highly recommended. Many thanks to Aria for an ARC.
June 9, 2020
I have been a fan of Heather's work for quite a while now. Whilst I haven't caught up with all of her books yet, I keep pace with her new releases and when I have a spare bit of time, I read one of her earlier books. Heather certainly writes gritty crime novels that pull no punches and tell it how it is. I read the synopsis for 'Crystal', which is the third book in 'The Working Girls' series and it certainly sounded like another cracking read from Heather. I wasn't wrong either because I absolutely LOVED reading 'Crystal' but more about that in a bit.
Crystal is an interesting character. The first plus point for her is the fact that she has red hair. I am more than likely biased though on account of me sharing the same hair colour, although mine is naturally ginger and hers perhaps isn't. Anyway I digress so sorry about that and back to the review I do go. Crystal is a working girl, who lives on her own with her young child. Crystal is mourning the loss of her pimp but at the same time she carries around a lot of guilt around with her for one thing or another. Crystal abuses both alcohol and drugs but I think that she uses them as a way of coping with her sometimes chaotic lifestyle and to cope with her problems. That said I did think that she was wrong in using both drink and drugs when her child depends on her. Something happens to Crystal, which really shakes her up and in retaliation she pinches the possessions of the perpetrator. In another instance a judge 'buys' Crystal's silence and it's not long until Crystal realises that she could make a packet out of blackmailing her clients and asking them to pay for her silence. Has Crystal bitten off more than she can chew? What happens to Crystal? Well for the answers to those questions and so much more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
Oh my flipping (not the word I wanted to use as Mamma Ginger Book Geek might be reading and she doesn't like me using that word), 'Crystal' was a seriously fantastic book and then some. The cover of the book was enough to grab my attention on account of the redhead on the front and the fact that the title was in purple, which is one of my favourite colours. I know, I know I am very superficial. The fact that it was written by Heather just sealed the deal as it were. I was drawn into the story from the first word on the first page. To say that reading 'Crystal' became an addiction is a massive understatement. If I was wasn't reading the book, I was thinking about the book and if I had to put the book down for any reason then I would immediately look forward to being able to pick the book up again. I felt like an addict in constant need of her next fix. I wasn't able to read the book over the space of a single day because boring things like life got in the way but I did manage to read 'Crystal' in just under 48 hours, which is still pretty good going for me. I was gripped by the story and on the edge of my seat throughout.
'Crystal' is brilliantly written but then I think that to be true of all of Heather's books. She certainly knows how to write a gritty and tense story, that will keep you guessing. For me, 'Crystal' was perfectly paced. The story hit the ground running and maintained the pace throughout. Heather has one of those writings style that packs a punch and then some. Reading 'Crystal' felt more like a chat between friends rather than reading an actual book. I know that might sound silly to some but it makes sense to me. Heather describes the criminal world with all of its violence and the lifestyle of a working girl so vividly and so realistically that she scared the doo doo out of me. I felt as though I was part of the story myself which is all down to Heather's fantastic storytelling.
Reading 'Crystal' was much like being on one hell of a scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride, with more twists and turns to the tale than you would find on a 'Snakes & Ladders' board. Just when you thought that you could take a minute to catch your breath, reclaim your stomach and put down the cushion you were hiding behind, then off the action would go again.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'Crystal' and I would definitely recommend this book to other readers. I will definitely be reading more of Heather's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
Crystal is an interesting character. The first plus point for her is the fact that she has red hair. I am more than likely biased though on account of me sharing the same hair colour, although mine is naturally ginger and hers perhaps isn't. Anyway I digress so sorry about that and back to the review I do go. Crystal is a working girl, who lives on her own with her young child. Crystal is mourning the loss of her pimp but at the same time she carries around a lot of guilt around with her for one thing or another. Crystal abuses both alcohol and drugs but I think that she uses them as a way of coping with her sometimes chaotic lifestyle and to cope with her problems. That said I did think that she was wrong in using both drink and drugs when her child depends on her. Something happens to Crystal, which really shakes her up and in retaliation she pinches the possessions of the perpetrator. In another instance a judge 'buys' Crystal's silence and it's not long until Crystal realises that she could make a packet out of blackmailing her clients and asking them to pay for her silence. Has Crystal bitten off more than she can chew? What happens to Crystal? Well for the answers to those questions and so much more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
Oh my flipping (not the word I wanted to use as Mamma Ginger Book Geek might be reading and she doesn't like me using that word), 'Crystal' was a seriously fantastic book and then some. The cover of the book was enough to grab my attention on account of the redhead on the front and the fact that the title was in purple, which is one of my favourite colours. I know, I know I am very superficial. The fact that it was written by Heather just sealed the deal as it were. I was drawn into the story from the first word on the first page. To say that reading 'Crystal' became an addiction is a massive understatement. If I was wasn't reading the book, I was thinking about the book and if I had to put the book down for any reason then I would immediately look forward to being able to pick the book up again. I felt like an addict in constant need of her next fix. I wasn't able to read the book over the space of a single day because boring things like life got in the way but I did manage to read 'Crystal' in just under 48 hours, which is still pretty good going for me. I was gripped by the story and on the edge of my seat throughout.
'Crystal' is brilliantly written but then I think that to be true of all of Heather's books. She certainly knows how to write a gritty and tense story, that will keep you guessing. For me, 'Crystal' was perfectly paced. The story hit the ground running and maintained the pace throughout. Heather has one of those writings style that packs a punch and then some. Reading 'Crystal' felt more like a chat between friends rather than reading an actual book. I know that might sound silly to some but it makes sense to me. Heather describes the criminal world with all of its violence and the lifestyle of a working girl so vividly and so realistically that she scared the doo doo out of me. I felt as though I was part of the story myself which is all down to Heather's fantastic storytelling.
Reading 'Crystal' was much like being on one hell of a scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride, with more twists and turns to the tale than you would find on a 'Snakes & Ladders' board. Just when you thought that you could take a minute to catch your breath, reclaim your stomach and put down the cushion you were hiding behind, then off the action would go again.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'Crystal' and I would definitely recommend this book to other readers. I will definitely be reading more of Heather's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
June 3, 2020
This is book three in The Working Girls series.
This is Crystals story. She is absolutely devastated when her pimp and partner Gilly dies. She’s a great character who I really liked.
I love this authors style of writing. This is another gritty addition to this gangland crime series.
This is Crystals story. She is absolutely devastated when her pimp and partner Gilly dies. She’s a great character who I really liked.
I love this authors style of writing. This is another gritty addition to this gangland crime series.
June 13, 2020
After a vicious beating by a nasty client, Crystal decides she has had enough of being used and abused as a working girl. But getting out isn’t as easy as it sounds and she knows she needs money to ensure she can get clean and give her daughter the best possible life. She comes up with a plan to rob, blackmail and expose her most depraved clients but by doing so she uncovers more than she bargained for...
I’ve never read anything by Heather Burnside so I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect but the synopsis caught my attention plus as this was set in Manchester, I was particularly interested to see how it differed to those in the same genre that are set in the gangland streets of London.
Heather’s writing is pacy and easy to follow but I found aspects of the storyline slightly unrealistic. And although Crystal’s character development is clear, she wasn’t the most likeable. Ruby on the other hand I liked a great deal. She came across as genuine and strong.
The plot was full of twist and turns and did keep my interest right to the end despite some obvious flaws.
I didn’t realise Crystal was the third book in The Working Girls series when I started reading it, but I‘m comfortable saying you can read it as a stand alone story as I didn’t feel like I was missing anything having not read the first two books.
Crystal is a story of abuse, corruption and revenge and therefore I’m giving trigger warnings for sexual abuse, violence, kidnapping and drug/alcohol abuse.
If you want a fast paced thriller with plenty of twists, then this series might just be for you.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher (Aria Fiction) for providing a copy of the book for review. All opinions are my own and provided willingly.
I’ve never read anything by Heather Burnside so I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect but the synopsis caught my attention plus as this was set in Manchester, I was particularly interested to see how it differed to those in the same genre that are set in the gangland streets of London.
Heather’s writing is pacy and easy to follow but I found aspects of the storyline slightly unrealistic. And although Crystal’s character development is clear, she wasn’t the most likeable. Ruby on the other hand I liked a great deal. She came across as genuine and strong.
The plot was full of twist and turns and did keep my interest right to the end despite some obvious flaws.
I didn’t realise Crystal was the third book in The Working Girls series when I started reading it, but I‘m comfortable saying you can read it as a stand alone story as I didn’t feel like I was missing anything having not read the first two books.
Crystal is a story of abuse, corruption and revenge and therefore I’m giving trigger warnings for sexual abuse, violence, kidnapping and drug/alcohol abuse.
If you want a fast paced thriller with plenty of twists, then this series might just be for you.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher (Aria Fiction) for providing a copy of the book for review. All opinions are my own and provided willingly.
June 21, 2020
I have very mixed feeling about this book. On one hand, I thought the storyline was really good, it sounded full of excitement and action and was drawing me in for that reason. On the other hand, I felt like the writing let it down. I love Martina Cole and Roberta Kray books, they are gangland stories with grit. This one felt like a poor relative, it was repetitive and in places, felt as though the author had either forgotten that she had written certain things, or felt the need to reiterate them unnecessarily making me feel like I was reading a childrens book. There wasn't much action either, and whilst I felt for Cyrstal, I actually thought the decisions she made were pretty dumb and not thought out....and Ruby was just bloody annoying, the best character in this book was Candice! I haven't read the previous two books in this series and I don't think I needed to as it works as a standalone, but I won't be reading the rest! It was a good time filler but really middle of the road for me.
April 13, 2020
This is Crystal's story set in Manchester, she's carrying an almighty secret after her pimp and partner Gilly's death, and her best mate Ruby is concerned for her, at the wake she breaks down, drink and drugs have taking a hold on her, and she has to change for the sake of her daughter Candice, she getting older, and Crystal cannot hide her lifestyle for much longer. Checking into rehab doing a two week course, she comes out with plans for revenge on her clients, building up a sash of money to start her own business, she can do this. Oh what can I say, revenge is,sweet, this girl knows what it takes to get what she wants, it's a gripping, compulsive and addictive read, that you will enjoy. So fast pace moments ahead, I was well and truly hooked. I love the working girl's series, they are all unique with their own story. Brilliant.
May 28, 2020
The best of the series
Crystal can't get over Gilly's death and hits the streets drugs and drink hard even her mate ruby can't get her to see sense. Having gone back on the game a night she thought would be easy money changed in to life changing events...
Fab ending to the working girls.
Crystal can't get over Gilly's death and hits the streets drugs and drink hard even her mate ruby can't get her to see sense. Having gone back on the game a night she thought would be easy money changed in to life changing events...
Fab ending to the working girls.
June 12, 2025
I absolutely love the working girl books and Crystal is a fantastic addition to it. The third book in the series and in my opinion the best yet, Crystal is able to be read as a standalone, but you would be missing out not reading the other two books, The Mark and Ruby.
In this story we see Crystal playing a very dangerous game by seeking revenge on her more depraved clients by blackmailing them for money. But she picks the wrong man and is quick to realise that her actions, although with the best intentions, are about to become her worst nightmare!
Crystal is such a great character and you find yourself rooting for her throughout. At her deepest low, she rises above and takes back control of her life and she has been so vividly written, she just comes to life through the pages beautifully. I was also happy to see badass Ruby make a cameo appearance and was pleased to see that she is still just as spectacular as ever!
I really love Heather’s writing which is so engaging and it is so easy to be caught up in this world she has created with these strong independent women. These stories are gritty, intense and even though a world away from what my life is, I love them and I can’t wait to see what Heather comes up with next in the series.
A fast-paced and action-packed read, Crystal is one book that will keep you on the edge of your seat with a pounding heart as you read well into the early hours of the morning. Heather is such an asset to the crime thriller genre and has created a cracking book that is another contender to add to be part of my best books for 2020. It was an absolute pleasure to read and review Crystal which I highly recommend.
Thank you to NetGalley, Aria and Heather Burnside for allowing me to read an advanced copy of Crystal which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
In this story we see Crystal playing a very dangerous game by seeking revenge on her more depraved clients by blackmailing them for money. But she picks the wrong man and is quick to realise that her actions, although with the best intentions, are about to become her worst nightmare!
Crystal is such a great character and you find yourself rooting for her throughout. At her deepest low, she rises above and takes back control of her life and she has been so vividly written, she just comes to life through the pages beautifully. I was also happy to see badass Ruby make a cameo appearance and was pleased to see that she is still just as spectacular as ever!
I really love Heather’s writing which is so engaging and it is so easy to be caught up in this world she has created with these strong independent women. These stories are gritty, intense and even though a world away from what my life is, I love them and I can’t wait to see what Heather comes up with next in the series.
A fast-paced and action-packed read, Crystal is one book that will keep you on the edge of your seat with a pounding heart as you read well into the early hours of the morning. Heather is such an asset to the crime thriller genre and has created a cracking book that is another contender to add to be part of my best books for 2020. It was an absolute pleasure to read and review Crystal which I highly recommend.
Thank you to NetGalley, Aria and Heather Burnside for allowing me to read an advanced copy of Crystal which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
May 24, 2020
Crystal is a prostitute, after working for a good few years she's had enough and decides she wants to give it all up, the drugs, drink and the game. Her friend Ruby is becoming increasingly worried about her and she wants a decent life for herself and her daughter Candice.
She needs to come up with a plan to stop her habit so comes up with the idea of blackmailing some the characters she has serviced over the years to help her gain money without hawking herself anymore. She's had some right characters over her time and has gained a lot of knowledge on them.
These men obviously don't want what she has on them to become common knowledge nor do they want to pay her what she is asking. She is putting herself at risk but she's got attitude and the power to bring down these men.
This is such a gripping compulsive read and the thrills keep you on the edge of your seat as with each man she blackmails story unfolds.
I love the working class series, the characters are all likeable and sassy, real page-turners.
She needs to come up with a plan to stop her habit so comes up with the idea of blackmailing some the characters she has serviced over the years to help her gain money without hawking herself anymore. She's had some right characters over her time and has gained a lot of knowledge on them.
These men obviously don't want what she has on them to become common knowledge nor do they want to pay her what she is asking. She is putting herself at risk but she's got attitude and the power to bring down these men.
This is such a gripping compulsive read and the thrills keep you on the edge of your seat as with each man she blackmails story unfolds.
I love the working class series, the characters are all likeable and sassy, real page-turners.
November 19, 2024
I listened to this on audiobook. This is book 3 of 5 of The Working Girls Series.
So new author for me, but I love thrillers and it said this book was perfect for fans of Martina Cole, so I had high hopes of it being a great read, and I am happy to report that it was.
This story was full on entertaining, gritty, lots of action and so very well written. It really keeps you on your toes in anticipation as to what might happen next and how things will pan out.
The characters were all very well developed, strong and portrayed, pretty believable too.
The narrator Georgia Lock, she read the story well, gave each character their own unique voice and the story just flowed well.
I happy to say that I will be continuing with the series, so I am looking forward to getting into book 4 very shortly.
So new author for me, but I love thrillers and it said this book was perfect for fans of Martina Cole, so I had high hopes of it being a great read, and I am happy to report that it was.
This story was full on entertaining, gritty, lots of action and so very well written. It really keeps you on your toes in anticipation as to what might happen next and how things will pan out.
The characters were all very well developed, strong and portrayed, pretty believable too.
The narrator Georgia Lock, she read the story well, gave each character their own unique voice and the story just flowed well.
I happy to say that I will be continuing with the series, so I am looking forward to getting into book 4 very shortly.
April 15, 2020
I have to say I have thouroghly enjoyed this series so far. Crystal is a brilliant addition to the Working Girls Series.
At what part in your life do you realise that prostitution, drugs, pimps are all not good for you. Working girl Crystal has seen the death of her pimp, the father of her child and realises maybe now is the time to turn things around.
Her daughter is getting to the age that she wants to know what mum does at work, where she works, but Crystal is to ashamed to tell her and continues the lie of being a bar worker.
Crystal has a great plan for making some money to help see her through, is she thinking right, or is she going to end up in even more trouble.
A book following the life changes of one of the girls, a great read that really had me grating my teeth together. A real page turner, hooked from the very first page until the very end.
Well done to this author this series has been brilliant.
At what part in your life do you realise that prostitution, drugs, pimps are all not good for you. Working girl Crystal has seen the death of her pimp, the father of her child and realises maybe now is the time to turn things around.
Her daughter is getting to the age that she wants to know what mum does at work, where she works, but Crystal is to ashamed to tell her and continues the lie of being a bar worker.
Crystal has a great plan for making some money to help see her through, is she thinking right, or is she going to end up in even more trouble.
A book following the life changes of one of the girls, a great read that really had me grating my teeth together. A real page turner, hooked from the very first page until the very end.
Well done to this author this series has been brilliant.
June 5, 2020
The third book in the gritty and gripping working girls series features Crystal. Addicted to alcohol and drugs, Crystal reaches an all-time low when her partner and pimp Gilly dies. It's decision time for Crystal. She chooses to fight against her addictions and take revenge against her worst clients.
Blackmail forms the basis of Crystal's exit strategy from her old life, but she fails to see the inherent dangers.
Crystal's significant character development makes the ending positive in this story of redemption and revenge. Characterised by a pacy, twisty plot and positive female protagonists working girls is an addictive series worth reading.
I received a copy of this book from Head of Zeus -Aria via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Blackmail forms the basis of Crystal's exit strategy from her old life, but she fails to see the inherent dangers.
Crystal's significant character development makes the ending positive in this story of redemption and revenge. Characterised by a pacy, twisty plot and positive female protagonists working girls is an addictive series worth reading.
I received a copy of this book from Head of Zeus -Aria via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
September 23, 2020
Crystal by Heather Burnside is the third book in the Working Girls series and I loved it, especially as it was another easy read and this book could be read as a standalone book.
Crystal was a prostitute, and she can not get over the death of Gilly. But, then Crystal goes back on the streets and hits the drugs and booze hard. Not even her good mate Ruby can't make her see sense that she is killing herself!!! All Crystal can see, it's easy money.........But at what cost!!!
Is it too late to save her?
WoW! What an excellent end to this series......
I highly recommend this series id books and this author. Her books just get better and better.
Big Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher Aria Fiction for providing a copy of the book for review.
All opinions are my own
Crystal was a prostitute, and she can not get over the death of Gilly. But, then Crystal goes back on the streets and hits the drugs and booze hard. Not even her good mate Ruby can't make her see sense that she is killing herself!!! All Crystal can see, it's easy money.........But at what cost!!!
Is it too late to save her?
WoW! What an excellent end to this series......
I highly recommend this series id books and this author. Her books just get better and better.
Big Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher Aria Fiction for providing a copy of the book for review.
All opinions are my own
April 22, 2020
I believe this is the third book in the working girls series by this author and I think the best. The story follows Crystal, a prostitute who is addicted to drugs and drink. After her pimp and lover dies life spirals downwards until an opportunity to come off the game and get clean enabling her to provide a better life for herself and her daughter presents itself. However, it does not come without danger and opening up a massive can of worms.
Many thanks to the publishers and netgalley for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Many thanks to the publishers and netgalley for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 9, 2020
Crystal is the third book in the Working Girls series a typical gangland crime thriller set in the city of Manchester, and although preferable it certainly isn't essential to have read the previous books before this one as it works perfectly well as a standalone novel.
I loved Crystal as a character and was routing for her all the way through the story of her to get her happy ever after.
Heather’s writing is engaging and it is so easy to be caught up in the world of the characters that she has created.
I loved Crystal as a character and was routing for her all the way through the story of her to get her happy ever after.
Heather’s writing is engaging and it is so easy to be caught up in the world of the characters that she has created.
April 29, 2020
Really enjoyed reading Crystals book and hearing her story from her childhood as she has featured a lot in the other books but never found out why she’s the way she is so throughly enjoyed finding out about crystal and reading her story which just like the rest of these books have been, This was a great read and a real page turner bringing characters in from the other books too which I enjoyed.I would definitely recommend this book and I hope there’s more too come.
May 25, 2020
Completely unrealistic character. A few anomalies in the age of Crystal. Been on the streets for 20 years, yet was in her early 30s? Sorted her life out in two weeks after years of alchohol and drug abuse? Addiction such as hers would have taken years to conquer not just by dyeing and cutting her hair. Plot - simple and completely far fetched as to lengths a person would go to to retrieve a piece of paper. A disappointing read.
June 11, 2020
The Working Girls book 3
Heather Burnside writes about the working girls in Manchester
Crystal has a hard life , takes drugs & drinks
She also has a daughter
She tries to make more money by blackmailing her high powered clients
This leads to her getting involved in a dangerous world
She goes to rehab gets clean but is there a price to be paid
Heather Burnside writes about the working girls in Manchester
Crystal has a hard life , takes drugs & drinks
She also has a daughter
She tries to make more money by blackmailing her high powered clients
This leads to her getting involved in a dangerous world
She goes to rehab gets clean but is there a price to be paid
August 30, 2020
It was good to read the conclusion of this series.
Crystal decides to turn her life around for the sake of her daughter and leave the world of prostitution behind. However how she replaces the income is questionable! She decides to blackmail a particularly sadistic client but it’s not easy sailing and leads to lots of heartache along the way .
Crystal decides to turn her life around for the sake of her daughter and leave the world of prostitution behind. However how she replaces the income is questionable! She decides to blackmail a particularly sadistic client but it’s not easy sailing and leads to lots of heartache along the way .
May 28, 2020
Out of touch
I wasn't impressed with this book at all. I was so disengaged from the storyline that it took me a fortnight to read it. I found it to be so unrealistic that I found it boring and out of touch with high end criminal life. I'm sorry, it didn't do it for me.
I wasn't impressed with this book at all. I was so disengaged from the storyline that it took me a fortnight to read it. I found it to be so unrealistic that I found it boring and out of touch with high end criminal life. I'm sorry, it didn't do it for me.
June 5, 2020
Not as well written as the first two books and not as enjoyable. The first two books I gave e
five stars but this one still worth a read. Look forward to reading some more from this author. Thank you
five stars but this one still worth a read. Look forward to reading some more from this author. Thank you
October 25, 2020
Brilliant
The 3rd instalment of Working girls and definitely my favourite. I'm loving Heather Burnside's books! Full of lively, likeable characters, plot twists and rich in detail. I'm a fan
The 3rd instalment of Working girls and definitely my favourite. I'm loving Heather Burnside's books! Full of lively, likeable characters, plot twists and rich in detail. I'm a fan
January 16, 2022
Fabulous
Third book and as good as the last 2
Can't wait to read Amber next.
Love the twists, shocks and the ending for Crystal and Spud.
These books are definitely worth reading.
Well done Heather Burnside.
Third book and as good as the last 2
Can't wait to read Amber next.
Love the twists, shocks and the ending for Crystal and Spud.
These books are definitely worth reading.
Well done Heather Burnside.
May 7, 2020
Crystal.s pimp Gilly dies of an overdose
Candice her daughter is about her mothers job
Crystal makes a job by revenge on the people she knows best
I had an ARC
Candice her daughter is about her mothers job
Crystal makes a job by revenge on the people she knows best
I had an ARC
May 15, 2020
I felt a bit sorry for the men at times I certainly wouldn’t want crystal as a enemy but didn’t really grip me to be honest
June 6, 2020
Good read
Good read looking fwd to the next one in the series..like that previous characters are included in the book.... thanks for a good enjoyable book xx
Good read looking fwd to the next one in the series..like that previous characters are included in the book.... thanks for a good enjoyable book xx
June 19, 2020
A*****
August 16, 2020
Crystal
A very enjoyable book couldn't put it down once I started reading it I would reccomend it to anyone cant wait to read more of Heather Burside 's books
A very enjoyable book couldn't put it down once I started reading it I would reccomend it to anyone cant wait to read more of Heather Burside 's books
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews