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D.I. Graves #2
From Inside The House
Two victims. Brutally murdered in their own home. Body parts taken.
D.I. Graves is back on the case to face his toughest challenge yet. A case with no motive and no suspect, nothing at all that could explain why someone would kill innocent people in such a way.
Then the next victims are discovered. Another pair of bodies. New body parts taken. Again in their own home.
Someone is breaking into houses across the city at night, leaving horror in their wake. It seems to Graves that this could be two serial killers, working together. But how are they choosing their victims? Is any house in London a target? Is anyone safe?
To make matters worse, a journalist is threatening to cause more harm than good with her obsessive push in covering the story to further her career, and someone is targeting Graves personally, seeking revenge against him in relation to an old case.
Can Graves keep himself safe long enough to stop the serial killers before they strike again?
D.I. Graves is back on the case to face his toughest challenge yet. A case with no motive and no suspect, nothing at all that could explain why someone would kill innocent people in such a way.
Then the next victims are discovered. Another pair of bodies. New body parts taken. Again in their own home.
Someone is breaking into houses across the city at night, leaving horror in their wake. It seems to Graves that this could be two serial killers, working together. But how are they choosing their victims? Is any house in London a target? Is anyone safe?
To make matters worse, a journalist is threatening to cause more harm than good with her obsessive push in covering the story to further her career, and someone is targeting Graves personally, seeking revenge against him in relation to an old case.
Can Graves keep himself safe long enough to stop the serial killers before they strike again?
397 pages, ebook
First published June 16, 2019
34 people are currently reading
131 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
November 20, 2019
Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for From Inside the House
There was a lot I loved about this book but first things first. I know… there’s something to be said for books that are a slow burn but… patience is not my strong suit. There is nothing like starting things off right in the thick of it. The first few pages flew by with just the right amount of gore factor and I’m happy to report that was only a hint of things to come.
As for our DI Graves (Yes, Graves! But I grew up in a town with dentists named Dr. Hurt and Dr. Payne so I know anything’s possible.), I liked him. He’s dedicated and smart but also quite human. Like the rest of us, he’s doing the best he can while working through some things. Not the least of which is some residual effect from The Demons Beneath. And while From Inside the House is completely suitable as a stand-alone, I wish I had read The Demons Beneath and definitely plan to do so in the future. The rest of the characters were well-rendered and well-developed even in cases where I did not find them entirely likable.
As for the plot, I won’t giveaway spoilers but I thought it put a pretty interesting spin on things. We’ve all read lots of serial killer books with obvious suspects and tired motives. This is NOT that book.
If you like your crime fiction full of twist and turns with a healthy sprinkling of (appropriate vs. gratuitous) gore, I highly recommend From Inside the House. (Pro tip: It’s free on Kindle Unlimited right now.) I’m very glad to have discovered WD Jackson-Smart’s writing. I would very much look forward to reading his future work.
Many thanks to Damppebbles Blog Tours and Panther Publishing for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
There was a lot I loved about this book but first things first. I know… there’s something to be said for books that are a slow burn but… patience is not my strong suit. There is nothing like starting things off right in the thick of it. The first few pages flew by with just the right amount of gore factor and I’m happy to report that was only a hint of things to come.
As for our DI Graves (Yes, Graves! But I grew up in a town with dentists named Dr. Hurt and Dr. Payne so I know anything’s possible.), I liked him. He’s dedicated and smart but also quite human. Like the rest of us, he’s doing the best he can while working through some things. Not the least of which is some residual effect from The Demons Beneath. And while From Inside the House is completely suitable as a stand-alone, I wish I had read The Demons Beneath and definitely plan to do so in the future. The rest of the characters were well-rendered and well-developed even in cases where I did not find them entirely likable.
As for the plot, I won’t giveaway spoilers but I thought it put a pretty interesting spin on things. We’ve all read lots of serial killer books with obvious suspects and tired motives. This is NOT that book.
If you like your crime fiction full of twist and turns with a healthy sprinkling of (appropriate vs. gratuitous) gore, I highly recommend From Inside the House. (Pro tip: It’s free on Kindle Unlimited right now.) I’m very glad to have discovered WD Jackson-Smart’s writing. I would very much look forward to reading his future work.
Many thanks to Damppebbles Blog Tours and Panther Publishing for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 1, 2019
Let’s get the obvious out of the way: yes, “Graves” is a funny name for a homicide detective inspector, but let’s not dwell on that because poor Dan gets teased about his unfortunate last name enough as it is! So moving on, I’m sure that if you’re a regular here, you won’t be surprised at my insistence you read this series in the correct chronological order. Yes, I know I’m rather anal that way, but in this case I think it’s really important that you do, not so much because you won’t be able to follow, or because of previous character-building, but more because From Inside the House gives away spoilers about The Demons Beneath. D.I. Daniel Graves is still suffering from the shit that went down in The Demons Beneath and while you need not have read that to understand his inner turmoil – I’m pretty sure he has a form of PTSD as well – if you don’t want to know how the first book ends, and which character dies, and how, you should really read that one first.
Graves is a great main character, I really like him. He’s not your run-of-the-mill tough-as-nails manly man, but he’s not a wuss either. He comes across as a rather vulnerable man, not yet jaded at the sight of a gruesome murder, but that doesn’t stop him from investigating a bunch of them. While the first Graves instalment felt horror-esque at the start, what with the whole demon / demonologist thing, From Inside the House is horror of an entirely different kind: people are getting killed in the most gruesome ways in their own homes, organs and body parts are taken, and when Graves and his team arrive at the scene they are met with a bloodbath every single time. This becomes a pattern: we witness the intruders in the homes, attacking or about to attack the victims, and then we meet (a gagging 🤢) Graves and his team for the aftermath. Don’t worry too much about that, no need to feel overly queasy just yet, we see what happened, obviously, but we are spared the most gruesome details. Well, most of the time anyway… There are some scenes that made me grimace and want to curl up into a little ball too…
The search for the culprit and trying to find the common denominator of the murders is highly entertaining, the murders must be connected, but how, and why? Then there’s the side storyline of Kelly, a journalist willing to go to whatever lengths needed to get that perfect article, including invading victims’ privacy and putting herself in harm’s way. And there is of course the continuation of Graves’ storyline. Someone is still out to get him and they are getting closer. I loved switching between these storylines and seeing them all come together in a thrilling finale.
From Inside the House packs a lot of punch in not that many pages. If you’re in the market for an entertaining serial killer story to read this summer, I’d happily recommend this one!
Graves is a great main character, I really like him. He’s not your run-of-the-mill tough-as-nails manly man, but he’s not a wuss either. He comes across as a rather vulnerable man, not yet jaded at the sight of a gruesome murder, but that doesn’t stop him from investigating a bunch of them. While the first Graves instalment felt horror-esque at the start, what with the whole demon / demonologist thing, From Inside the House is horror of an entirely different kind: people are getting killed in the most gruesome ways in their own homes, organs and body parts are taken, and when Graves and his team arrive at the scene they are met with a bloodbath every single time. This becomes a pattern: we witness the intruders in the homes, attacking or about to attack the victims, and then we meet (a gagging 🤢) Graves and his team for the aftermath. Don’t worry too much about that, no need to feel overly queasy just yet, we see what happened, obviously, but we are spared the most gruesome details. Well, most of the time anyway… There are some scenes that made me grimace and want to curl up into a little ball too…
The search for the culprit and trying to find the common denominator of the murders is highly entertaining, the murders must be connected, but how, and why? Then there’s the side storyline of Kelly, a journalist willing to go to whatever lengths needed to get that perfect article, including invading victims’ privacy and putting herself in harm’s way. And there is of course the continuation of Graves’ storyline. Someone is still out to get him and they are getting closer. I loved switching between these storylines and seeing them all come together in a thrilling finale.
From Inside the House packs a lot of punch in not that many pages. If you’re in the market for an entertaining serial killer story to read this summer, I’d happily recommend this one!
July 10, 2019
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ this one deserves a thousand stars. Thanks so much panther publishing for sending me a copy to read and review!
ONE IF NOT THE BEST BOOK IVE READ. THIS IS NOT AN UNDERSTATEMENT IF YOU LOVE CRIME,MYSTERY OR THRILLERS YOU NEEEEEEED TO READ THIS. I can’t recommend it enough.
This is WD Jackson Smarts second book in the DI Graves series. I’ve yet to read the first one (but after this one believe me I am straight away!!!!) but this book does well as a stand alone meaning you don’t necessarily have to read the first one first.
Synopsis: Two victims. Brutally murdered in their own home. Body parts taken.D.I. Graves is back on the case to face his toughest challenge yet. A case with no motive and no suspect, nothing at all that could explain why someone would kill innocent people in such a way.Then the next victims are discovered. Another pair of bodies. New body parts taken. Again in their own home.Someone is breaking into houses across the city at night, leaving horror in their wake. It seems to Graves that this could be two serial killers, working together. But how are they choosing their victims? Is any house in London a target? Is anyone safe?To make matters worse, a journalist is threatening to cause more harm than good with her obsessive push in covering the story to further her career, and someone is targeting Graves personally, seeking revenge against him in relation to an old case.Can Graves keep himself safe long enough to stop the serial killers before they strike again?
Thoughts: have you ever read and book and been genuinely annoyed that’s it’s over and wondering how on earth you’re going to wait until the next one comes out ? then that’s this!!! Full of suspense, drama, crime. At parts it was frightening, reading my kindle in the dark glancing round to make sure the serial killers weren’t there to cut me into pieces. As you read the story something else is going on in Graves life something else scary. I don’t want to give to much away but this is unbelievable!!! The authors writing has blown me away. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book with such suspense before. Amazing!! I’m off to order the first one!
ONE IF NOT THE BEST BOOK IVE READ. THIS IS NOT AN UNDERSTATEMENT IF YOU LOVE CRIME,MYSTERY OR THRILLERS YOU NEEEEEEED TO READ THIS. I can’t recommend it enough.
This is WD Jackson Smarts second book in the DI Graves series. I’ve yet to read the first one (but after this one believe me I am straight away!!!!) but this book does well as a stand alone meaning you don’t necessarily have to read the first one first.
Synopsis: Two victims. Brutally murdered in their own home. Body parts taken.D.I. Graves is back on the case to face his toughest challenge yet. A case with no motive and no suspect, nothing at all that could explain why someone would kill innocent people in such a way.Then the next victims are discovered. Another pair of bodies. New body parts taken. Again in their own home.Someone is breaking into houses across the city at night, leaving horror in their wake. It seems to Graves that this could be two serial killers, working together. But how are they choosing their victims? Is any house in London a target? Is anyone safe?To make matters worse, a journalist is threatening to cause more harm than good with her obsessive push in covering the story to further her career, and someone is targeting Graves personally, seeking revenge against him in relation to an old case.Can Graves keep himself safe long enough to stop the serial killers before they strike again?
Thoughts: have you ever read and book and been genuinely annoyed that’s it’s over and wondering how on earth you’re going to wait until the next one comes out ? then that’s this!!! Full of suspense, drama, crime. At parts it was frightening, reading my kindle in the dark glancing round to make sure the serial killers weren’t there to cut me into pieces. As you read the story something else is going on in Graves life something else scary. I don’t want to give to much away but this is unbelievable!!! The authors writing has blown me away. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book with such suspense before. Amazing!! I’m off to order the first one!
August 15, 2022
DI Daniel Graves & partner, DI Charlie Palmer are back in the second book of this series. They are called in to investigate the murder of a couple in the city. The deaths are particularly nasty with missing body parts, torture, & the brutalised bodies are left almost posed: the killer seems to be a strange mix of order & chaos. As more deaths occur, the detectives & their wider team realise that there could be two killers working together. Why though, & what is the significance of the missing body parts?
Their investigation is being followed by journalist, Kelly Malone, whose ambitions ultimately cause her to break the law & put her life in danger. Meanwhile Daniel hears from his sister after a long estrangement, & he is still grieving after the death of a girl he was romantically interested in. He is shocked to receive a message aimed directly at him on her online memorial page - it seems her killer is still angry with Daniel & wants further revenge.
The first book was very creepy in parts, & whilst this one dispenses with the paranormal angle, it's just as chilling in a different way. The murders are described in detail from the point of view of the victims, & it's pretty grim. The pace is perfect, there's no lull in the middle, & the reader is kept on the edge of their seat. The two DIs' partnership continues to grow with both of them recognising each other's strengths & weaknesses & how they complement each other in the job. I'm not a fan of Kelly Malone, however, & it's difficult to work out what Palmer sees in her. Overall it was a gripping if gruesome read, & I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
My thanks to the author & publishers, Bloodhound Books, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
Their investigation is being followed by journalist, Kelly Malone, whose ambitions ultimately cause her to break the law & put her life in danger. Meanwhile Daniel hears from his sister after a long estrangement, & he is still grieving after the death of a girl he was romantically interested in. He is shocked to receive a message aimed directly at him on her online memorial page - it seems her killer is still angry with Daniel & wants further revenge.
The first book was very creepy in parts, & whilst this one dispenses with the paranormal angle, it's just as chilling in a different way. The murders are described in detail from the point of view of the victims, & it's pretty grim. The pace is perfect, there's no lull in the middle, & the reader is kept on the edge of their seat. The two DIs' partnership continues to grow with both of them recognising each other's strengths & weaknesses & how they complement each other in the job. I'm not a fan of Kelly Malone, however, & it's difficult to work out what Palmer sees in her. Overall it was a gripping if gruesome read, & I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
My thanks to the author & publishers, Bloodhound Books, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
July 15, 2019
Full review can be found here: https://wp.me/pajm6f-nM
As the synopsis indicates, the book opens with the 'crime scene' where the victims are attacked in their own house and killed brutally, then posed into a grotesque tableau. later on police investigation, it's discovered that body parts of the victims are stolen from the scene, leaving behind no DNA, fingerprints or whatsoever to find the killer.
Soon another crime scene comes into light leaving another set of victims killed brutally and body parts stolen. It's officially a serial killer investigation, and the police face terrific pressure from the Press and the Public. There is the ruthless and slightly irritating journalist kelly Malone who'd do anything to get info on the murders, which leads to several compromises including the death of a victim.
Detective Inspector Graves and his partner Charlie Palmer are both likeable and quick thinkers for their jobs. Graves is still down with family issues with his sister whose relationship had an impact on his life. While Palmer is manipulated by the bitchy journalist Kelly Malone. They both make a good pair, trustworthy and sharp minds.
The description of crime scenes are meticulous and gory at the same time. So if you can't stomach the blood and rawness of killings, you might want to skim a few passages to proceed further, as the killings are not getting kinder either. The pace of the book keeps the reader hooked to reach further chapters and the conversations are easy-breezy to keep up. It has been a nice, binge-worthy read for me and I definitely recommend this book to my fellow crime fiction lovers. Thanks to the publisher for having me on their blog tour. All opinions are my own.
As the synopsis indicates, the book opens with the 'crime scene' where the victims are attacked in their own house and killed brutally, then posed into a grotesque tableau. later on police investigation, it's discovered that body parts of the victims are stolen from the scene, leaving behind no DNA, fingerprints or whatsoever to find the killer.
Soon another crime scene comes into light leaving another set of victims killed brutally and body parts stolen. It's officially a serial killer investigation, and the police face terrific pressure from the Press and the Public. There is the ruthless and slightly irritating journalist kelly Malone who'd do anything to get info on the murders, which leads to several compromises including the death of a victim.
Detective Inspector Graves and his partner Charlie Palmer are both likeable and quick thinkers for their jobs. Graves is still down with family issues with his sister whose relationship had an impact on his life. While Palmer is manipulated by the bitchy journalist Kelly Malone. They both make a good pair, trustworthy and sharp minds.
The description of crime scenes are meticulous and gory at the same time. So if you can't stomach the blood and rawness of killings, you might want to skim a few passages to proceed further, as the killings are not getting kinder either. The pace of the book keeps the reader hooked to reach further chapters and the conversations are easy-breezy to keep up. It has been a nice, binge-worthy read for me and I definitely recommend this book to my fellow crime fiction lovers. Thanks to the publisher for having me on their blog tour. All opinions are my own.
November 20, 2019
Having read and reviewed the first book in this excellent series, I was thrilled to be given the opportunity to follow up with book #2, From Inside the House.
This time D.I. Graves finds himself in the thick of things as the body count escalates across London. Convinced the slayings are the work of two serial killers operating in tandem, he struggles to find a connection or motive. In a race against time to prevent yet more deaths, Graves must also find a way to reconcile tragic events from his own past.
I thought this was a fantastic read. I was literally glued to my seat; my heartbeat racing. It was chilling and thrilling. Containing graphic descriptions of torture, disfiguration and murder, it wont be for everyone; but for those of us with strong stomachs, it was one hell of a ride!
A word of advice though - it's essential to read the first book in the series, The Demons Beneath, before attempting this one. Failure to do so will mean not only missing out on an incredible novel, but may also lead to difficulty following Graves' backstory.
Not wanting to spoil the plot, all I'll say is that the climax was brilliant. It's a book (and series) I shall be recommending to absolutely everyone. A superb read.
Book Source: Review copy from the author
Read my review on my blog: https://bit.ly/2qzdUAm
This time D.I. Graves finds himself in the thick of things as the body count escalates across London. Convinced the slayings are the work of two serial killers operating in tandem, he struggles to find a connection or motive. In a race against time to prevent yet more deaths, Graves must also find a way to reconcile tragic events from his own past.
I thought this was a fantastic read. I was literally glued to my seat; my heartbeat racing. It was chilling and thrilling. Containing graphic descriptions of torture, disfiguration and murder, it wont be for everyone; but for those of us with strong stomachs, it was one hell of a ride!
A word of advice though - it's essential to read the first book in the series, The Demons Beneath, before attempting this one. Failure to do so will mean not only missing out on an incredible novel, but may also lead to difficulty following Graves' backstory.
Not wanting to spoil the plot, all I'll say is that the climax was brilliant. It's a book (and series) I shall be recommending to absolutely everyone. A superb read.
Book Source: Review copy from the author
Read my review on my blog: https://bit.ly/2qzdUAm
June 29, 2019
DI Daniel Graves and co are back to investigate some gruesome murders in From Inside the House. He is still reeling from events that occurred during his investigations into one of his previous cases and they are haunting him in a way he didn’t expect. The fact that the first two murders show a tentative link to these events had both him and me wondering if the same person was involved. When more bodies turn up again murdered in their own homes the team are struggling to find the connection as they seem both planned yet random. Will a survivor to one of the attacks give them the clues they need?
I will admit the description of the first murders had me going ewwww and oooooh at the same time as I although I am not a big fan of blood and gore in real life, I do seem to like reading about it. I will warn you that as more bodies turn up the killings don’t get any less gruesome so if you really are squeamish then you may need to read those parts quickly, however thankfully the author does not go into graphic detail of the killings for the majority of them. You also get to learn a little bit more about both Graves and Palmer as things in their past cloud both the investigations and at times their judgement but you do also get to see more of the friendship that is developing between them.
With the exception of the killers there was only really one character that I couldn’t warm to and that was journalist Kelly Malone. Constantly after the story that will put her ahead of her rival she at times jeopardises the case and puts both herself and the team in the line of fire. She has a history with Charlie Palmer and thinks nothing of using him to get what she wants.
I was expecting more to be made of the events at the end of the previous book however the author skilfully weaved that in to the story bringing in Graves’s estranged sister and making way for book 3 or at least I really hope so. From Inside the House is another fast paced book from Jackson-Smart and a welcome addition to a series that I am intrigued to see where it goes to next. You don’t have to have read The Demons Beneath (the first in the series) to enjoy this book but I would heartily recommend that you do as like this one it’s a brilliant read.
I will admit the description of the first murders had me going ewwww and oooooh at the same time as I although I am not a big fan of blood and gore in real life, I do seem to like reading about it. I will warn you that as more bodies turn up the killings don’t get any less gruesome so if you really are squeamish then you may need to read those parts quickly, however thankfully the author does not go into graphic detail of the killings for the majority of them. You also get to learn a little bit more about both Graves and Palmer as things in their past cloud both the investigations and at times their judgement but you do also get to see more of the friendship that is developing between them.
With the exception of the killers there was only really one character that I couldn’t warm to and that was journalist Kelly Malone. Constantly after the story that will put her ahead of her rival she at times jeopardises the case and puts both herself and the team in the line of fire. She has a history with Charlie Palmer and thinks nothing of using him to get what she wants.
I was expecting more to be made of the events at the end of the previous book however the author skilfully weaved that in to the story bringing in Graves’s estranged sister and making way for book 3 or at least I really hope so. From Inside the House is another fast paced book from Jackson-Smart and a welcome addition to a series that I am intrigued to see where it goes to next. You don’t have to have read The Demons Beneath (the first in the series) to enjoy this book but I would heartily recommend that you do as like this one it’s a brilliant read.
July 12, 2019
From Inside The House is the second book in the DI Graves series and having read and loved the first book, The Demons Beneath, I couldn't wait to get stuck into this next instalment. This story sees victims being killed in pairs and bodies left posed at crime scenes. The police suspect two serial killers working together, rather intriguingly one is a psychopath and one is a sociopath.
You could read From Inside The House as a standalone but there is a continuation of a storyline from the first book, so I think it's better to read The Demons Beneath first to get the full story. There are definitely enough details included to make sure that new readers aren't disadvantaged though and you could always read The Demons Beneath afterwards to fill in any blanks.
Graves is such a great name for a homicide detective, especially one who almost vomits at the sight of a dead body. I love the dynamic he has with his partner, Charlie Palmer, which contrasts with the tenuous relationship he has with his sister. Graves and his sister were close once until a series of events changed Graves' life forever. His sister does make an appearance at the end which left me with baited breath for the next book!
Strangely enough, I really liked the annoying journalist character, Kelly Malone. It just shows what a competitive business journalism is and perhaps explains why reporters do what they do in order to get a story. Kelly even puts her life at risk to get a story just so she can get one over on her rival at the newspaper. Obviously, I don't imagine such things happen in real life but reporters are like sharks and once they smell blood they can't do anything else but go in for the kill.
With murder scenes described in amazing detail, From Inside The House is flesh crawling in a gory way as opposed to the supernatural element that spooked me in The Demons Beneath. As with many second novels in a series, it didn't quite manage to knock the first book off the top spot but I have a feeling that things are about to get really interesting for DI Graves. From Inside The House is gritty, dark and gruesome and I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for book 3.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
You could read From Inside The House as a standalone but there is a continuation of a storyline from the first book, so I think it's better to read The Demons Beneath first to get the full story. There are definitely enough details included to make sure that new readers aren't disadvantaged though and you could always read The Demons Beneath afterwards to fill in any blanks.
Graves is such a great name for a homicide detective, especially one who almost vomits at the sight of a dead body. I love the dynamic he has with his partner, Charlie Palmer, which contrasts with the tenuous relationship he has with his sister. Graves and his sister were close once until a series of events changed Graves' life forever. His sister does make an appearance at the end which left me with baited breath for the next book!
Strangely enough, I really liked the annoying journalist character, Kelly Malone. It just shows what a competitive business journalism is and perhaps explains why reporters do what they do in order to get a story. Kelly even puts her life at risk to get a story just so she can get one over on her rival at the newspaper. Obviously, I don't imagine such things happen in real life but reporters are like sharks and once they smell blood they can't do anything else but go in for the kill.
With murder scenes described in amazing detail, From Inside The House is flesh crawling in a gory way as opposed to the supernatural element that spooked me in The Demons Beneath. As with many second novels in a series, it didn't quite manage to knock the first book off the top spot but I have a feeling that things are about to get really interesting for DI Graves. From Inside The House is gritty, dark and gruesome and I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for book 3.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
July 5, 2019
Despite being a second installment within a series, I read this book first and I certainly didn’t feel like I had missed out although my fellow bloggers who have read both do recommend reading them in order as there is background information and the events of the first novel are referred to often. I will definitely be heading in the direction of book one in the near future.
The opening chapter of this novel really grabbed my attention and it didn’t stop from there. I love nothing more than a dark thriller and this one certainly fulfilled my needs. As the victims pile up, the murders become more depraved and disturbing, the kind of reading that makes you double check your doors at night.
The plot moves at a quick pace and there is never a dull moment. It switches narrators at points which is great as it allows the reader to experience the story from a different perspective.
It was refreshing to read a novel with two main male protagonists who have the tough cop exterior but are actually able to express their emotions and who actually showed them. Both characters were likable and portrayed as ‘human’ with flaws and thoughts that most of us can identify with.
My only ‘beef’ with this novel was that often, the women had more character and personality and whilst not portrayed as unpleasant, they were written to come across as cold and out of touch with emotion. It would be nice to see female characters who are good at their jobs but can also express their personalities and emotions. Maybe this is how men would feel about many male characters written by female authors.
Overall – I really enjoyed this dark page turner and recommend it to those who are not feint hearted.
The opening chapter of this novel really grabbed my attention and it didn’t stop from there. I love nothing more than a dark thriller and this one certainly fulfilled my needs. As the victims pile up, the murders become more depraved and disturbing, the kind of reading that makes you double check your doors at night.
The plot moves at a quick pace and there is never a dull moment. It switches narrators at points which is great as it allows the reader to experience the story from a different perspective.
It was refreshing to read a novel with two main male protagonists who have the tough cop exterior but are actually able to express their emotions and who actually showed them. Both characters were likable and portrayed as ‘human’ with flaws and thoughts that most of us can identify with.
My only ‘beef’ with this novel was that often, the women had more character and personality and whilst not portrayed as unpleasant, they were written to come across as cold and out of touch with emotion. It would be nice to see female characters who are good at their jobs but can also express their personalities and emotions. Maybe this is how men would feel about many male characters written by female authors.
Overall – I really enjoyed this dark page turner and recommend it to those who are not feint hearted.
July 9, 2019
This is the second book from WD Jackson. I have already written a review for his first book, ‘The Demons Beneath’ which I loved.
‘From Inside The House’ was just as good, if not better. It picks up where the first book left off but yet still leaves you wanting more.
The synopsis is DI Graves is back on the case after two victims are found brutally murdered in their own home... worse still, body parts have been taken. No motive, no clues, no suspects, this is one of Graves’ toughest cases to date. Gradually, more bodies are found in their homes with body parts stolen. A serial killer is on the loose, but is he/she working alone?
To top all of this off, someone is targeting Graves in relation to another case. At first he thinks he’s going mad, but eventually realises that he has to keep himself safe in order to finally find the suspects involved. AND a journalist is determined to work her way up the career ladder and puts herself and the police in serious danger in order to get her story.
This is a ‘fly by the seat of your pants’ kinda novel and I loved it. There is a lot going on, but it isn’t at all complicated.
I read through it very quickly and I look forward to a third book in the future. Those cliffhangers are so good, but so bad!!
I think WD Jackson deserves a lot of credit for his first two books and if you love a crime/drama you should definitely give these a go, but make sure to read them in order or it probably won’t make much sense.
Four big stars for me.
Published by Panther Publishing
397 pages
Happy Reading x
‘From Inside The House’ was just as good, if not better. It picks up where the first book left off but yet still leaves you wanting more.
The synopsis is DI Graves is back on the case after two victims are found brutally murdered in their own home... worse still, body parts have been taken. No motive, no clues, no suspects, this is one of Graves’ toughest cases to date. Gradually, more bodies are found in their homes with body parts stolen. A serial killer is on the loose, but is he/she working alone?
To top all of this off, someone is targeting Graves in relation to another case. At first he thinks he’s going mad, but eventually realises that he has to keep himself safe in order to finally find the suspects involved. AND a journalist is determined to work her way up the career ladder and puts herself and the police in serious danger in order to get her story.
This is a ‘fly by the seat of your pants’ kinda novel and I loved it. There is a lot going on, but it isn’t at all complicated.
I read through it very quickly and I look forward to a third book in the future. Those cliffhangers are so good, but so bad!!
I think WD Jackson deserves a lot of credit for his first two books and if you love a crime/drama you should definitely give these a go, but make sure to read them in order or it probably won’t make much sense.
Four big stars for me.
Published by Panther Publishing
397 pages
Happy Reading x
November 9, 2019
I absolutely love discovering new authors and WD Jackson-Smart is definitely a new author for me. However, having enjoyed 'From Inside The House' as much as I did, I can guarantee that I will be reading more of this author's work in the future. It seems sort of wrong to say it but I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'From Inside The House' even if it was perhaps a bit gruesome, but more about that in a bit.
Detective Inspector Graves is a bit of a complex character. He is a dedicated police officer, who does what he can to achieve justice for the victims of crime and for their families. He does have his human side though and he shows his emotions. He carries around a certain amount of guilt with him for mistakes he may have made during a case or for not capturing a murderer. This book does delve into Graves' back story which helped me to gain an understanding of why he is how he is. I hope that makes sense. Graves oversees a small team and they all seem to get on quite well. It didn't take me long to warm to the character of Graves and I look forward to finding out more about him in the future.
I soon became addicted to reading 'From Inside The House'. I did make the fatal mistake of beginning to read the book, whilst eating my tea (or dinner to those who call it that). It's just as well that I have a strong stomach, which is thanks to being brought up by two nurses for parents, because the beginning of the book is rather gruesome in nature. After that well I just couldn't get enough of the story and reading it became an addiction. I refused to be parted from the book because I feared breaking the hold that the book had over me and I also feared missing out on some vital clue. I became so wrapped up in the story that I couldn't be distracted by anything or anybody. Usually I have the attention span of a gnat and I am easily distracted but not in this case because I was focused on the story and on the story alone. I lost all track of time whilst reading this book. In fact the world outside could have ended and I would have known nothing about it because I was so caught up in the book. I reached the end of 'From Inside The House' far quicker than I had anticipated or expected. I was most disappointed to reach the end but that's not meant in a negative sense. I was enjoying the characters, the author's writing style and the storylines so much that I just wanted the book to continue. I soon cheered up though when I realised that I had the first book in the D.I Graves series to catch up on.
The author has a writing style that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. He certainly knows how to grab your attention from the start with some pretty gruesome details about a double murder. The discovery of the bodies will stay fresh in my mind for a long time to come. Once the author has your attention he will not let it go until you close the back cover of the book. The author writes so convincingly and realistically that I really did feel as though I was part of the story myself.
Reading 'From Inside The House' was much like being on one hell of a scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with more twists and turns than you would find on a 'Snakes & Ladders' board. Just when you thought that you could gather your thoughts, reclaim your stomach, catch your breath and allow your heart rate to return to normal, then off the story would go again.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'From Inside The House' and I will definitely recommend it to other readers. I will definitely be reading more from WD Jackson-Smart in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
Detective Inspector Graves is a bit of a complex character. He is a dedicated police officer, who does what he can to achieve justice for the victims of crime and for their families. He does have his human side though and he shows his emotions. He carries around a certain amount of guilt with him for mistakes he may have made during a case or for not capturing a murderer. This book does delve into Graves' back story which helped me to gain an understanding of why he is how he is. I hope that makes sense. Graves oversees a small team and they all seem to get on quite well. It didn't take me long to warm to the character of Graves and I look forward to finding out more about him in the future.
I soon became addicted to reading 'From Inside The House'. I did make the fatal mistake of beginning to read the book, whilst eating my tea (or dinner to those who call it that). It's just as well that I have a strong stomach, which is thanks to being brought up by two nurses for parents, because the beginning of the book is rather gruesome in nature. After that well I just couldn't get enough of the story and reading it became an addiction. I refused to be parted from the book because I feared breaking the hold that the book had over me and I also feared missing out on some vital clue. I became so wrapped up in the story that I couldn't be distracted by anything or anybody. Usually I have the attention span of a gnat and I am easily distracted but not in this case because I was focused on the story and on the story alone. I lost all track of time whilst reading this book. In fact the world outside could have ended and I would have known nothing about it because I was so caught up in the book. I reached the end of 'From Inside The House' far quicker than I had anticipated or expected. I was most disappointed to reach the end but that's not meant in a negative sense. I was enjoying the characters, the author's writing style and the storylines so much that I just wanted the book to continue. I soon cheered up though when I realised that I had the first book in the D.I Graves series to catch up on.
The author has a writing style that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. He certainly knows how to grab your attention from the start with some pretty gruesome details about a double murder. The discovery of the bodies will stay fresh in my mind for a long time to come. Once the author has your attention he will not let it go until you close the back cover of the book. The author writes so convincingly and realistically that I really did feel as though I was part of the story myself.
Reading 'From Inside The House' was much like being on one hell of a scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with more twists and turns than you would find on a 'Snakes & Ladders' board. Just when you thought that you could gather your thoughts, reclaim your stomach, catch your breath and allow your heart rate to return to normal, then off the story would go again.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'From Inside The House' and I will definitely recommend it to other readers. I will definitely be reading more from WD Jackson-Smart in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
August 5, 2022
Well, I was promised a gritty & gory read & this certainly delivered the goods. Tension is in the air from the start when a young couple are brutally murdered in their home. Graves & Palmer are the detectives tasked with tracking down this sadistic murderer(s) as he…or maybe they…target more people in their own homes. It was quite unsettling to know something awful (understatement of the year!) was going to happen to the victims while they’re going about their lives oblivious & it made for edge of seat reading. The feeling of unease builds really well as the victims realise something is amiss in their home & what follows makes for unsettling but gripping reading. I like my crime on the gruesome side but I have to say that I winced & shuddered on more than one occasion - so take that as a warning if you’re on squeamish side!
As well as the police investigation, one thread follows journalist Kelly who is desperate to get the scoop about the killer…or killers. Kelly also has some history with Palmer & isn’t above a bit of manipulation to get the headline she so badly wants. The question is how much will she risk to get it?
This is book 2 in the D I Graves series & one of the side stories here is obviously following on from events that happened in the earlier book. There’s enough revealed for it to make sense to “new readers” & to tempt those of us who haven’t read it, to hunt a copy down. Looks like I’ve another series to follow…
* I received a free copy from Bloodhound books & this review is my own opinion*
As well as the police investigation, one thread follows journalist Kelly who is desperate to get the scoop about the killer…or killers. Kelly also has some history with Palmer & isn’t above a bit of manipulation to get the headline she so badly wants. The question is how much will she risk to get it?
This is book 2 in the D I Graves series & one of the side stories here is obviously following on from events that happened in the earlier book. There’s enough revealed for it to make sense to “new readers” & to tempt those of us who haven’t read it, to hunt a copy down. Looks like I’ve another series to follow…
* I received a free copy from Bloodhound books & this review is my own opinion*
November 8, 2019
#2 in the DI Daniel Graves series, it can be read as a stand-alone, but if you haven’t read #1 you are missing out on the start of a great series…
DI Graves and his partner, DI Charlie Palmer are called to a murder scene….nothing like they have seen before in its brutality.
But then, a second couple are murdered and the similarities suggest the same killer or killers….they have taken body parts too.
Daniel is still trying to come to terms with the death of Jenny and her killer is still taunting him….(from book #1).
With a high profile case, the press are everywhere and one journalist, Kelly, will do anything to get an exclusive, even putting herself in extreme danger.
This is a dark and twisted tale, what the killers do with the body parts is particularly horrific. I can’t say much more about the plot for fear of spoiling it, but it has a bit of everything, even touching on mental health issues, with Daniel’s panic attacks…..there’s murder, fear, family and someone is still out there! Compelling and utterly brilliant. I’m looking forward to the next in the series already….
Thank you to Damppebbles Blog Tours for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour, for the promotional materials and a free copy of the ebook. This is my honest, unbiased review.
DI Graves and his partner, DI Charlie Palmer are called to a murder scene….nothing like they have seen before in its brutality.
But then, a second couple are murdered and the similarities suggest the same killer or killers….they have taken body parts too.
Daniel is still trying to come to terms with the death of Jenny and her killer is still taunting him….(from book #1).
With a high profile case, the press are everywhere and one journalist, Kelly, will do anything to get an exclusive, even putting herself in extreme danger.
This is a dark and twisted tale, what the killers do with the body parts is particularly horrific. I can’t say much more about the plot for fear of spoiling it, but it has a bit of everything, even touching on mental health issues, with Daniel’s panic attacks…..there’s murder, fear, family and someone is still out there! Compelling and utterly brilliant. I’m looking forward to the next in the series already….
Thank you to Damppebbles Blog Tours for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour, for the promotional materials and a free copy of the ebook. This is my honest, unbiased review.
September 30, 2019
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...
As soon as I read the blurb for this book I was intrigued, I always like to pick up books where possible for author’s that are new to me so I was really keen to get started on this one when the copy landed on my Kindle.
I thought that the characters were very well developed and I enjoyed their interaction. The plot and structure of the book were well prepped which helped to make it a gripping read from the start. The description in the book were excellent and they made me really feel as though I was there looking at the same
This is the second book in the series and I do think that it can be read as a stand-alone (I personally haven’t read the first book yet but I do plan to rectify that in the not too distant future and I didn’t feel that I was missing out on anything!).
This was a book with a solid plot and strong characterisation – the characters were very well developed, personable and believable. It is 4.5 stars from me for this one, rounded up to 5 stars for Goodreads and Amazon – it is an excellent story – highly recommended!!
This is the second book in the DI Graves series, the first in the series, The Demons Beneath is available now!
As soon as I read the blurb for this book I was intrigued, I always like to pick up books where possible for author’s that are new to me so I was really keen to get started on this one when the copy landed on my Kindle.
I thought that the characters were very well developed and I enjoyed their interaction. The plot and structure of the book were well prepped which helped to make it a gripping read from the start. The description in the book were excellent and they made me really feel as though I was there looking at the same
This is the second book in the series and I do think that it can be read as a stand-alone (I personally haven’t read the first book yet but I do plan to rectify that in the not too distant future and I didn’t feel that I was missing out on anything!).
This was a book with a solid plot and strong characterisation – the characters were very well developed, personable and believable. It is 4.5 stars from me for this one, rounded up to 5 stars for Goodreads and Amazon – it is an excellent story – highly recommended!!
This is the second book in the DI Graves series, the first in the series, The Demons Beneath is available now!
July 11, 2019
Well, well, well.... Who enjoyed reading From Inside The House? I most certainly did. Immediately I was drawn in to a deeply disturbing sequence of events where two people are quite savagely murdered by an unknown individual. I sat on my kitchen counter with a hot cup of coffee, jaw slacked reading the novel that WD created with such a depth of deadly detail that I couldn't function adequately until I finished... Even then I was brain fogged with bookish hangover.
From Inside The House was when I first became acquainted with DI Graves, although this read is a part of a thriller series, it can most certainly be read independently without the chilling impact being watered down. What can I say about DI Graves? He is a man that has been in the deepest pits of loss and desperation, it radiates off him like a heart-breaking warmth. I completely sympathised with him concerning the events that I can only assume happened within the first novel, I appreciated the stitching of previous events into the current read as it created further character developments and depth of narrative.
The storyline flicks between a multitude of view points, which include DI Graves and the victims prior to death. This, for me allowed all a larger overall image of events that occurred while still keeping the darkly suspense and a spine chilling level. It is very evident that WD Jackson - Smart has concentrated on all details of this novel, including the planning of sequent events. I thoroughly enjoyed the shock value descriptions of the deaths and the sub-story (Felt a duality of dialogues merging into one).
WD Jackson - Smart was 100% meant to write crime thrillers, horror even! An unknown murderous individual lurks in the shadows, imposing into people's homes - a place that they feel most safe - with a thirst for blood like no other. The sadistic killer and the gory, vomit worthy details are only two of the ingredients present within this unsettling, disquiet read. I applaud WD for penning this piece of warped creativity. *Applause*
From Inside The House was when I first became acquainted with DI Graves, although this read is a part of a thriller series, it can most certainly be read independently without the chilling impact being watered down. What can I say about DI Graves? He is a man that has been in the deepest pits of loss and desperation, it radiates off him like a heart-breaking warmth. I completely sympathised with him concerning the events that I can only assume happened within the first novel, I appreciated the stitching of previous events into the current read as it created further character developments and depth of narrative.
The storyline flicks between a multitude of view points, which include DI Graves and the victims prior to death. This, for me allowed all a larger overall image of events that occurred while still keeping the darkly suspense and a spine chilling level. It is very evident that WD Jackson - Smart has concentrated on all details of this novel, including the planning of sequent events. I thoroughly enjoyed the shock value descriptions of the deaths and the sub-story (Felt a duality of dialogues merging into one).
WD Jackson - Smart was 100% meant to write crime thrillers, horror even! An unknown murderous individual lurks in the shadows, imposing into people's homes - a place that they feel most safe - with a thirst for blood like no other. The sadistic killer and the gory, vomit worthy details are only two of the ingredients present within this unsettling, disquiet read. I applaud WD for penning this piece of warped creativity. *Applause*
July 16, 2019
If your after a creepy, tense and gruesome read this is the one for you. Can D.I Graves work out who the murder is? This is edge of the seat stuff wanting to work out before the D.I who the murder was and why he/she did what they did to the victims. A tense read with a dramatic ending. This is book two in the D.I Graves series.
July 15, 2019
It can't finish like thiiiis! Come on! This was a great great book and the story was A+!
Loveable characters, gruesome murders, lots of twists - I really enjoyed it!
Can't wait to read more about D.I. Graves!
Loveable characters, gruesome murders, lots of twists - I really enjoyed it!
Can't wait to read more about D.I. Graves!
November 5, 2019
When I reviewed The Demons Beneath, my review went along the lines of
HOLY FRICKING MOLY!!!!
The End!
This review will be the same…..
HOLY FUDGERY !!!!!
The End!
In all seriousness, this man can write! In The Demons Beneath he terrified us with demonology and in From Inside The House it is the terrifying thought of home invasions! This book gave me the heeby-jeebies! The mere idea of someone breaking into your home, sneaking around and then committing vile, gory and unspeakable acts that just sends shivers down my spine. I loved that we are not given all the information, hardly any side information and all the eureka moments or information that is discovered we are shown at the same time.
We are given an insight to the home invasions but these are from the eyes of the prey for the night, we feel their fear, the trepidation of what will happen next and we hold our breath for them, hoping just maybe everything will be ok and the sun will shine again for them. Buttttttttttttt….. NO that does not happen! Do not let Mr Jackson-Smart fool you, he is tricksy and he is dark and he will toy with your emotions, is ok to say that I love this!!! To show us some of the victims last moments is heartbreaking and what made it worse is we didn’t know, at the time, why they were being targeted.
I love being back with Graves and the team and after the cliff hanger from The Demons Beneath I was keen to see how everyone was doing. Short answer Graves is not good, visibly shaken with how everything played out (no spoilers here) and the ghosts are still lingering and someone does not want him to forget and the blame game is out in full force with this one! I still love that he is not the macho man, he is a “real” man, he is sick at a crime scene, he hates guns and he is scared to be in his own home but he is brave and he is loyal! I want Graves in my life…oh wait…scrub that from my review! Eek
It was great to see Charlie Palmer back, his dynamic with Graves is awesome how they play off each other, their insecurities and their friendship is one they both truly cherish. Amelia is back and this time she is proving herself and mentoring a trainee, it was great to have her back albeit it was not the staring role this time. We are shown a bit of Charlie’s past in the form of Kelly Malone, the journalist trying to get a break on the case too, trying to get herself in a primetime position! But could this put her in “Grave” danger? She is a woman who will do whatever it takes to get the big break, I can see why people don’t like her because of her actions. However, I didn’t mind, she is determined, ok some of her behaviour is not justified she just wants to get by. We also see Rachel, Graves’ best friend and knightness in shining (loved that saying!) and his sister Amanda is there in the flesh…but this can’t be good news, can it!
And I have to mention what an unfinished ending that was! It is left completely wide open for the next book. It’s so frustrating not being able to discuss the ending, but it is a whopper! Big and juicy and it leaves you salivating for Book 3…which I hear the edits are being done for. Not sure how much longer I could wait! So many loose threads that I am excited to see how they are going to tie up and I can’t imagine they will be nice and tiny ones.
From Inside The House is a hectic, wild, terrifying, page-turning, thrilling ride! It left me cold in the night as you assess every creak and sound in your house. Could it be someone in your house? Or is it just your house settling down for the night? It definitely makes you think! I also just can’t believe how quickly it was all over! I mean the book is just under 400 pages but with Mr Jackson-Smart’s writing, you feel like you have read a novella. That’s my only bug-bear it was over WAY WAY too quickly hrmph! You need Graves and Palmer in your life and so you witness their crime-fighting skills! I could gush so much more, I would wholly recommend this book to everyone, the series, in fact, if you can handle the scares the thrills, the gore go for it. If not why not push yourself outside your comfort zone and try it anyway, you won’t regret it!
Final note….go and read this blinking book! Thank you and is it a good night?
HOLY FRICKING MOLY!!!!
The End!
This review will be the same…..
HOLY FUDGERY !!!!!
The End!
In all seriousness, this man can write! In The Demons Beneath he terrified us with demonology and in From Inside The House it is the terrifying thought of home invasions! This book gave me the heeby-jeebies! The mere idea of someone breaking into your home, sneaking around and then committing vile, gory and unspeakable acts that just sends shivers down my spine. I loved that we are not given all the information, hardly any side information and all the eureka moments or information that is discovered we are shown at the same time.
We are given an insight to the home invasions but these are from the eyes of the prey for the night, we feel their fear, the trepidation of what will happen next and we hold our breath for them, hoping just maybe everything will be ok and the sun will shine again for them. Buttttttttttttt….. NO that does not happen! Do not let Mr Jackson-Smart fool you, he is tricksy and he is dark and he will toy with your emotions, is ok to say that I love this!!! To show us some of the victims last moments is heartbreaking and what made it worse is we didn’t know, at the time, why they were being targeted.
I love being back with Graves and the team and after the cliff hanger from The Demons Beneath I was keen to see how everyone was doing. Short answer Graves is not good, visibly shaken with how everything played out (no spoilers here) and the ghosts are still lingering and someone does not want him to forget and the blame game is out in full force with this one! I still love that he is not the macho man, he is a “real” man, he is sick at a crime scene, he hates guns and he is scared to be in his own home but he is brave and he is loyal! I want Graves in my life…oh wait…scrub that from my review! Eek
It was great to see Charlie Palmer back, his dynamic with Graves is awesome how they play off each other, their insecurities and their friendship is one they both truly cherish. Amelia is back and this time she is proving herself and mentoring a trainee, it was great to have her back albeit it was not the staring role this time. We are shown a bit of Charlie’s past in the form of Kelly Malone, the journalist trying to get a break on the case too, trying to get herself in a primetime position! But could this put her in “Grave” danger? She is a woman who will do whatever it takes to get the big break, I can see why people don’t like her because of her actions. However, I didn’t mind, she is determined, ok some of her behaviour is not justified she just wants to get by. We also see Rachel, Graves’ best friend and knightness in shining (loved that saying!) and his sister Amanda is there in the flesh…but this can’t be good news, can it!
And I have to mention what an unfinished ending that was! It is left completely wide open for the next book. It’s so frustrating not being able to discuss the ending, but it is a whopper! Big and juicy and it leaves you salivating for Book 3…which I hear the edits are being done for. Not sure how much longer I could wait! So many loose threads that I am excited to see how they are going to tie up and I can’t imagine they will be nice and tiny ones.
From Inside The House is a hectic, wild, terrifying, page-turning, thrilling ride! It left me cold in the night as you assess every creak and sound in your house. Could it be someone in your house? Or is it just your house settling down for the night? It definitely makes you think! I also just can’t believe how quickly it was all over! I mean the book is just under 400 pages but with Mr Jackson-Smart’s writing, you feel like you have read a novella. That’s my only bug-bear it was over WAY WAY too quickly hrmph! You need Graves and Palmer in your life and so you witness their crime-fighting skills! I could gush so much more, I would wholly recommend this book to everyone, the series, in fact, if you can handle the scares the thrills, the gore go for it. If not why not push yourself outside your comfort zone and try it anyway, you won’t regret it!
Final note….go and read this blinking book! Thank you and is it a good night?
November 7, 2019
4 Stars from me
This is a cracking book with some properly gruesome crime scenes! So much so I would hate to listen to this on an audio book...
DI Graves is a great character, I really enjoyed him. He was clearly still suffering from a previous case and also from a somewhat complex relationship with his sister.
From Inside the House plays on that middle of the night terror situation of there being someone in your house... who means you harm. It is truly the stuff of nightmares, the one place in the world where you should feel safe and secure suddenly becomes the scene of a crime - with the homeowner(s) horrifically displayed in a hideous tableau.
DI Daniel Graves and his partner Charlie work tirelessly to find the killer, not any easy task when - despite the horror of the crime scenes - the murderer seems to leave no trace and there is no obvious connection between the victims.
Added into the mix is Kelly is a journalist who had manipulated Charlie in the past it isn't above attempting to exploit him again. Her drive and dogged determination to have a front page scoop makes her a deadly component in this story. Despite her lack of regard for people's privacy, I couldn't help but admire her drive for the truth.
From Inside The House is a definite page turner and as the second DI Graves novel I would suggest that you read the first - The Demons Beneath - first as it is obvious there is some history about Graves that I am sure it makes sense to be aware of.
Overall I really enjoyed this dark and disturbing thriller - it has great characters and a good mix of horror, intrigue and good old fashioned detective work. I look forward to reading more by this author.
This is a cracking book with some properly gruesome crime scenes! So much so I would hate to listen to this on an audio book...
DI Graves is a great character, I really enjoyed him. He was clearly still suffering from a previous case and also from a somewhat complex relationship with his sister.
From Inside the House plays on that middle of the night terror situation of there being someone in your house... who means you harm. It is truly the stuff of nightmares, the one place in the world where you should feel safe and secure suddenly becomes the scene of a crime - with the homeowner(s) horrifically displayed in a hideous tableau.
DI Daniel Graves and his partner Charlie work tirelessly to find the killer, not any easy task when - despite the horror of the crime scenes - the murderer seems to leave no trace and there is no obvious connection between the victims.
Added into the mix is Kelly is a journalist who had manipulated Charlie in the past it isn't above attempting to exploit him again. Her drive and dogged determination to have a front page scoop makes her a deadly component in this story. Despite her lack of regard for people's privacy, I couldn't help but admire her drive for the truth.
From Inside The House is a definite page turner and as the second DI Graves novel I would suggest that you read the first - The Demons Beneath - first as it is obvious there is some history about Graves that I am sure it makes sense to be aware of.
Overall I really enjoyed this dark and disturbing thriller - it has great characters and a good mix of horror, intrigue and good old fashioned detective work. I look forward to reading more by this author.
August 17, 2022
HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY!!!!!!
‘From Inside The House’ by W D Jackson-Smart 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Pace 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Gripping. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Plot 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Characters 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Gruesome. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
MY REVIEW:
This is the second in the DI Graves series but the first I have read. It didn’t matter at all. It was really easy to get into the plot and to get to know the central characters. It was exactly the sort of crime series I love and hit all the right buttons. It was a great police procedural, with a deliciously gruesome series of murders! It had serial killers, sociopaths, psychopaths and lots of exceedingly tense moments.
The descriptions of the relationships between the police team were superb. Each of the main characters were brought to life, they were so likeable, human, passionate about their difficult jobs. I felt keen to know more about their lives, to explore their worlds, touched by their emotional investment in each other and their cases.
The descriptions of the victims, the crimes were excellent. Reading was like watching a film, as each victim discovered the perpetrators. Their terror was palpable, visceral. I found myself holding my breath, whilst thinking what I would do in their circumstances. I enjoyed the way their thought processes were voiced, making it all seem so very real.
I think I have just found my new favourite crime series. I can’t wait to read the first in the series and to try to be patient while waiting for the next in the series!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Thank you so much to Bloodhound Books for giving me the opportunity to read an ARC copy of this gripping book. And to it’s criminally good author W D Jackson-Smart! I wouldn’t want to meet you in a dark alley though! 🤣
‘From Inside The House’ by W D Jackson-Smart 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Pace 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Gripping. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Plot 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Characters 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Gruesome. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
MY REVIEW:
This is the second in the DI Graves series but the first I have read. It didn’t matter at all. It was really easy to get into the plot and to get to know the central characters. It was exactly the sort of crime series I love and hit all the right buttons. It was a great police procedural, with a deliciously gruesome series of murders! It had serial killers, sociopaths, psychopaths and lots of exceedingly tense moments.
The descriptions of the relationships between the police team were superb. Each of the main characters were brought to life, they were so likeable, human, passionate about their difficult jobs. I felt keen to know more about their lives, to explore their worlds, touched by their emotional investment in each other and their cases.
The descriptions of the victims, the crimes were excellent. Reading was like watching a film, as each victim discovered the perpetrators. Their terror was palpable, visceral. I found myself holding my breath, whilst thinking what I would do in their circumstances. I enjoyed the way their thought processes were voiced, making it all seem so very real.
I think I have just found my new favourite crime series. I can’t wait to read the first in the series and to try to be patient while waiting for the next in the series!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Thank you so much to Bloodhound Books for giving me the opportunity to read an ARC copy of this gripping book. And to it’s criminally good author W D Jackson-Smart! I wouldn’t want to meet you in a dark alley though! 🤣
November 14, 2019
This had one of the best opening scenes that I'd read in recent times. The scene was so gruesome and macabre that my bloodthirsty heart quivered in anticipation, longing to know what more the author had in store for me.
Home invasion and a couple was killed, mutilated, husband hung on the wall almost crucified and body parts taken out. Whew it sure wasn't for the faint hearted. And D.I. Graves was back along with Charlie and Amelia and Patrick. They sure did make the plot intelligent with the way each played their part according to their expertise. And they went investigating when another couple was killed in a horrific way and another. Add to that a pesky journalist who wanted to make a name for herself. And hints of another case dodging Graves. It didn't end here, his sister needed help too.
Forget the detectives, I was quite flabbergasted with the way the author had thought up layers of subplots. I felt like a voyeur, looking at Graves from the outside, seeing him ravaged by these swirling winds of crime and murders. He was strong yet vulnerable, had a few breakdowns yet persevered, and at the end, backed and supported by his team.
Only after I reached the last page of the book, did I realize that it was nearly 400 pages. The swiftness of the pace did not allow me to feel the pages. The police investigation was ooh la la, I know it's an old term, but it was like magic. They searched the clues from the deepest of data and came to the right conclusion, absolutely a joy to see.
One of the best series, I would say, but I did wish that Graves would get help soon, he did contaminate the murder site. I just have to wait for the next book to see that. A fun read!!
Home invasion and a couple was killed, mutilated, husband hung on the wall almost crucified and body parts taken out. Whew it sure wasn't for the faint hearted. And D.I. Graves was back along with Charlie and Amelia and Patrick. They sure did make the plot intelligent with the way each played their part according to their expertise. And they went investigating when another couple was killed in a horrific way and another. Add to that a pesky journalist who wanted to make a name for herself. And hints of another case dodging Graves. It didn't end here, his sister needed help too.
Forget the detectives, I was quite flabbergasted with the way the author had thought up layers of subplots. I felt like a voyeur, looking at Graves from the outside, seeing him ravaged by these swirling winds of crime and murders. He was strong yet vulnerable, had a few breakdowns yet persevered, and at the end, backed and supported by his team.
Only after I reached the last page of the book, did I realize that it was nearly 400 pages. The swiftness of the pace did not allow me to feel the pages. The police investigation was ooh la la, I know it's an old term, but it was like magic. They searched the clues from the deepest of data and came to the right conclusion, absolutely a joy to see.
One of the best series, I would say, but I did wish that Graves would get help soon, he did contaminate the murder site. I just have to wait for the next book to see that. A fun read!!
November 25, 2019
The creepy crimes in this second book of the DI Graves series really set this crime thriller apart. I liked how the author explored the nature of the crimes, allowing the investigation to go in new directions. As with the last book, I really like how the characters are “real people.” They have their flaws like any normal person and are far from ideal. A plot line from the first novel carries over and leaves with a cliffhanger indicating there is more to come from DI Graves. For a detailed review, please visit my blog at Fireflies and Free Kicks Fiction Reviews. This review was written based on a digital ARC of the book and all thoughts are my own.
August 14, 2022
Well this is not your normal crime thriller, it had real heart and both the motive and perpetrators were not apparent. Great slow burn which built up the tension.
I would recommend reading book one first though as it does flow from it and build on it. There is an interesting sub plot which I can see developing further in the future.
I was given an advance copy by bloodhound books but the review is entirely my own.
I would recommend reading book one first though as it does flow from it and build on it. There is an interesting sub plot which I can see developing further in the future.
I was given an advance copy by bloodhound books but the review is entirely my own.
November 12, 2019
WOW, just wow!
From Inside the House is the second book in the D.I. Graves series, but can be read as a stand alone. I haven’t read book one in the series (yet), but at no point did I feel as though I was missing out on information. There are a few things mentioned which obviously refer to book one, but none of them effect story enough to make it confusing.
From the very beginning, this book is full of action, and it certainly doesn’t slow down at any point. From start to finish, it was fast-paced, intense, and impossible to put down, everything you could possibly want from a crime/horror book. Jackson-Smart gave such an in depth description of the murders and crime scenes, you could actually visualise it, and it’s utterly disturbing. This book will easily give you nightmares, and send shivers down your spine.
The characters are all incredible well written, and I loved how the relationships between characters developed throughout the story. Graves and Palmer make such an excellent team, and make the story so much more enjoyable to read. I particularly love how although Graves is a D.I, he isn’t portrayed as this super human who can stomach anything, and how he still struggles when entering a crime scene, and is still dealing with his own personal struggles on top of his work. It made his character so much more realistic, believable, and likeable.
THAT ENDING. WD Jackson-Smart, how could you end it like that? I NEED ANSWERS!
The way this book ends is the perfect set up for book three to jump straight into the action, just as From Inside the House did, and I can not wait to read it!
This was my first time reading any of Jackson-Smart’s work, but it certainly will not be the last. In fact, I have already bought book one of the D.I. Graves series (The Demons Beneath), and will be reading it as soon as possible. From Inside the House is the type of book that I love to read, and I can honestly say that this is one of the best books I have read in a long time.
I give From Inside the House a very easy 5/5 rating!
From Inside the House is the second book in the D.I. Graves series, but can be read as a stand alone. I haven’t read book one in the series (yet), but at no point did I feel as though I was missing out on information. There are a few things mentioned which obviously refer to book one, but none of them effect story enough to make it confusing.
From the very beginning, this book is full of action, and it certainly doesn’t slow down at any point. From start to finish, it was fast-paced, intense, and impossible to put down, everything you could possibly want from a crime/horror book. Jackson-Smart gave such an in depth description of the murders and crime scenes, you could actually visualise it, and it’s utterly disturbing. This book will easily give you nightmares, and send shivers down your spine.
The characters are all incredible well written, and I loved how the relationships between characters developed throughout the story. Graves and Palmer make such an excellent team, and make the story so much more enjoyable to read. I particularly love how although Graves is a D.I, he isn’t portrayed as this super human who can stomach anything, and how he still struggles when entering a crime scene, and is still dealing with his own personal struggles on top of his work. It made his character so much more realistic, believable, and likeable.
THAT ENDING. WD Jackson-Smart, how could you end it like that? I NEED ANSWERS!
The way this book ends is the perfect set up for book three to jump straight into the action, just as From Inside the House did, and I can not wait to read it!
This was my first time reading any of Jackson-Smart’s work, but it certainly will not be the last. In fact, I have already bought book one of the D.I. Graves series (The Demons Beneath), and will be reading it as soon as possible. From Inside the House is the type of book that I love to read, and I can honestly say that this is one of the best books I have read in a long time.
I give From Inside the House a very easy 5/5 rating!
November 6, 2019
Our houses are supposed to be a safe place where we can relax and we should feel secure. However, someone is somehow getting inside people’s houses in London and brutally murdering its residents. D. I. Daniel Graves and his partner Charlie work hard to find the killer before he murders someone else, but it’s not easy when the murderer leaves no traces and it doesn’t seem there is a connection between the victims. In the meantime, Kelly is a journalist who is ready to do anything to have her articles on the front page, even if it means to risk her own life.
From Inside The House is the second novel featuring D.I Daniel Graves and, even though it is easy to read it as a stand-alone if you haven’t read the first novel, I recommend you do read The Demons Beneath as some of the storyline follows what happened in that first book. D.I. Daniel Graves is still facing the demons from his past and a killer who is haunting him. I loved reading about his relationship with his partner Charlie. Even though they have been working together just for a few months, they are like old friends and I enjoyed their banter. Let me tell you that the murders are very gruesome and detailed so this novel is not for everyone. The plot is dark, claustrophobic, and chilling and the suspense will keep you on the edge of your seat. The characters are multi-layered and complex and the story ends with a cliff-hanger that leaves you holding your breath and eager to see what happens next.
From Inside The House is the second novel featuring D.I Daniel Graves and, even though it is easy to read it as a stand-alone if you haven’t read the first novel, I recommend you do read The Demons Beneath as some of the storyline follows what happened in that first book. D.I. Daniel Graves is still facing the demons from his past and a killer who is haunting him. I loved reading about his relationship with his partner Charlie. Even though they have been working together just for a few months, they are like old friends and I enjoyed their banter. Let me tell you that the murders are very gruesome and detailed so this novel is not for everyone. The plot is dark, claustrophobic, and chilling and the suspense will keep you on the edge of your seat. The characters are multi-layered and complex and the story ends with a cliff-hanger that leaves you holding your breath and eager to see what happens next.
July 15, 2019
Firstly I must admit that Crime fiction is not normally my thing. I’m a lover of dark stories, gruesome stories, the supernatural and anything that makes the skin crawl. When I read the synopsis for ‘from inside the house’ though, I thought hey, this sounds pretty good.
So was I right? Short answer, yes!
Now ‘From inside the house’ is the second book in the D.I. Graves series of novels and at the point of writing this review, I have not read the first book. A big thanks to Panther Publishing for sending me an advance copy of this to review and I can definitely say I will be going back and reading the first instalment right away.
This being the second book, there are obviously some events from the previous book that carry over. Fortunately it does not bog down the story in this book and revelations from Daniel Graves last adventure are given to us steadily and in an easily understandable way that relates easily to the story being told. If like me, you are reading out of sequence, it does spoil the previous book but it does do a good job of making this book much easier to read from a stand alone point. Kudos to the author for that.
The story itself is well told and well paced, nothing feels like it slows down the narrative. All the characters, now well developed from a previous novel transfer over greatly and they all have distinct personalities. Being British myself it’s good to see the author capture the Britishness in the way people speak and act. I’m not normally one for British Fiction or Television as it all just feels too cheesy for me but there is none of that here. All the characters feel real and London feels alive (or not so much, depending on how you look at it).
In conclusion then I can definitively say I thoroughly enjoyed my time with ‘From inside the house’. It’s faced paced, dark and it’s definitely gruesome. All the things that keep me turning the page, or in this case, pressing the screen. Events from the previous novel are woven in seamlessly and the story winds naturally down to a point that leads right in to Daniel’s next adventure as well as tying up enough loose ends for it to feel like a satisfying conclusion. If you like a good crime thriller with a dose of horror and proverbial skin chill. This series is the one for you!
So was I right? Short answer, yes!
Now ‘From inside the house’ is the second book in the D.I. Graves series of novels and at the point of writing this review, I have not read the first book. A big thanks to Panther Publishing for sending me an advance copy of this to review and I can definitely say I will be going back and reading the first instalment right away.
This being the second book, there are obviously some events from the previous book that carry over. Fortunately it does not bog down the story in this book and revelations from Daniel Graves last adventure are given to us steadily and in an easily understandable way that relates easily to the story being told. If like me, you are reading out of sequence, it does spoil the previous book but it does do a good job of making this book much easier to read from a stand alone point. Kudos to the author for that.
The story itself is well told and well paced, nothing feels like it slows down the narrative. All the characters, now well developed from a previous novel transfer over greatly and they all have distinct personalities. Being British myself it’s good to see the author capture the Britishness in the way people speak and act. I’m not normally one for British Fiction or Television as it all just feels too cheesy for me but there is none of that here. All the characters feel real and London feels alive (or not so much, depending on how you look at it).
In conclusion then I can definitively say I thoroughly enjoyed my time with ‘From inside the house’. It’s faced paced, dark and it’s definitely gruesome. All the things that keep me turning the page, or in this case, pressing the screen. Events from the previous novel are woven in seamlessly and the story winds naturally down to a point that leads right in to Daniel’s next adventure as well as tying up enough loose ends for it to feel like a satisfying conclusion. If you like a good crime thriller with a dose of horror and proverbial skin chill. This series is the one for you!
September 25, 2021
Home invasion thriller too spooky for me
I had to skim through it to get to the end as it was way too much suspense and graphic horror for me.
I had to skim through it to get to the end as it was way too much suspense and graphic horror for me.
August 21, 2022
In London, DI Daniel Graves and his partner DI Charlie Palmer are suddenly faced with two bloody crime scenes in a matter of days. Both feature a husband and wife murdered at home after a break in, and each time one victim has had their throat and wrists cut while the other is missing a body part. All are brutal horrific deaths with the husband’s body horribly posed. Is there a religious motive, maybe the killers are doing this for twisted kicks? Without a motive, they have to consider the awful alternative that the murders are purely random but with both sociopathic and psychopathic traces showing, they must face the possibly that two deranged people are working together and there may even be a connection to a previously unsolved murder where the killer is taunting Daniel. The detectives need a breakthrough before anyone else dies. Have they struck lucky when a third attack in under two weeks leaves a witness? And what has happened to the stolen body parts? Meanwhile Charlie’s ex-girlfriend, ambitious reporter Kelly Malone, is determined to make herself front page news one way or another.
Daniel and Charlie are two great characters who both have their strong and weak points and complement each other working together with their team of likeable and skilled detectives including DS Amelia Harding and DS Ross Hayes. The story is very well written, fast flowing and totally engrossing, weaving a web of grisly confusing clues and false leads for both the reader and the police to follow. With a great thread left open for the next book I am really looking forward to reading more in this series. Meanwhile for me it’s back to book one, The Demons Beneath, which I can’t believe I missed! 5*
Daniel and Charlie are two great characters who both have their strong and weak points and complement each other working together with their team of likeable and skilled detectives including DS Amelia Harding and DS Ross Hayes. The story is very well written, fast flowing and totally engrossing, weaving a web of grisly confusing clues and false leads for both the reader and the police to follow. With a great thread left open for the next book I am really looking forward to reading more in this series. Meanwhile for me it’s back to book one, The Demons Beneath, which I can’t believe I missed! 5*
August 16, 2022
This is the second book in the series, and I will definitely be reading the first book now, but you can read this book as a standalone. A really good read I enjoyed reading this book.
There seems to be two serial killers who seem to be working with each other and committing brutal murders across London in the victims’ own homes. The first a husband and wife are tortured before being killed with the bodies posed the husband is crucified with his heart removed. Not long after a second couple are found dead which is also staged with another body part removed.
DI Daniel Graves and DI Charlie Palmer are the lead investigators on the case they have no leads to who the killers are, how they are getting into the properties or what the motive is for the killings. How many killings have to happen before they have all the answers?
Reporter Kelly Mallon is trying to better her career with the lead on this story as an old love interest of Charlie Palmer feeling are stirred up again or is she only wanting information.
I would definitely recommend this book the main plot and other sub plots make is a really good read.
There seems to be two serial killers who seem to be working with each other and committing brutal murders across London in the victims’ own homes. The first a husband and wife are tortured before being killed with the bodies posed the husband is crucified with his heart removed. Not long after a second couple are found dead which is also staged with another body part removed.
DI Daniel Graves and DI Charlie Palmer are the lead investigators on the case they have no leads to who the killers are, how they are getting into the properties or what the motive is for the killings. How many killings have to happen before they have all the answers?
Reporter Kelly Mallon is trying to better her career with the lead on this story as an old love interest of Charlie Palmer feeling are stirred up again or is she only wanting information.
I would definitely recommend this book the main plot and other sub plots make is a really good read.
August 17, 2022
This is the first book I have read by this author, and there are a lot of references to book one (The Demon’s Beneath). In retrospect, I probably should have read book one first, (although having read the synopsis and reviews of book one, I believe the references made highlight the most significant events).
In this second book, Daniel Graves and his partner Charlie Palmer find themselves on the trail of two brutal killers who are terrorising the streets of London. The author has created a cast of interesting characters - including two very noteworthy ‘bad guys’ and his descriptions of London are well crafted and atmospheric. There were just a couple of things that bothered me: Daniel is so very damaged by both his childhood and his professional past that I wonder how he manages to function so well in such a demanding position, and the number of surnames that began with H - it was a tad confusing in places!
This book is most definitely not for the squeamish - there are several murders and each one is rather gruesome - you have been warned. All in all, an exciting book which earns a solid 4 stars from me.
In this second book, Daniel Graves and his partner Charlie Palmer find themselves on the trail of two brutal killers who are terrorising the streets of London. The author has created a cast of interesting characters - including two very noteworthy ‘bad guys’ and his descriptions of London are well crafted and atmospheric. There were just a couple of things that bothered me: Daniel is so very damaged by both his childhood and his professional past that I wonder how he manages to function so well in such a demanding position, and the number of surnames that began with H - it was a tad confusing in places!
This book is most definitely not for the squeamish - there are several murders and each one is rather gruesome - you have been warned. All in all, an exciting book which earns a solid 4 stars from me.
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