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DI Bliss #8
The Autumn Tree
When dark desires have no limitations, anything is fair game.
After a young woman is found strangled to death, Bliss is called to the scene. When he learns that one of his business cards was found among the victim's clothing, and he is told what was written on the back of it, Bliss is immediately troubled. The card was one of five he handed out to trafficked young women he and his team had previously rescued from a shipping container.
When he sees the victim, Bliss realises she was not one of those saved that day. So whose card does she have? Any why? And is it connected to her murder?
The murder investigation proves to be more complex and challenging than the team could possibly have imagined. But just as they think they have it figured out, they learn that depravity has no boundaries...
After a young woman is found strangled to death, Bliss is called to the scene. When he learns that one of his business cards was found among the victim's clothing, and he is told what was written on the back of it, Bliss is immediately troubled. The card was one of five he handed out to trafficked young women he and his team had previously rescued from a shipping container.
When he sees the victim, Bliss realises she was not one of those saved that day. So whose card does she have? Any why? And is it connected to her murder?
The murder investigation proves to be more complex and challenging than the team could possibly have imagined. But just as they think they have it figured out, they learn that depravity has no boundaries...
334 pages, ebook
First published May 24, 2021
77 people are currently reading
91 people want to read
About the author
Tony J. Forder
48 books235 followersTony J Forder is the author of the bestselling DI Bliss crime thriller series. Bad to the Bone, The Scent of Guilt, If Fear Wins, The Reach of Shadows, The Death of Justice, Endless Silent Scream, Slow Slicing, The Autumn Tree, Darker Days to Come, The Lightning Rod, What Dies Inside Us, Something More to Say, and The Honourable Rogue. There is also a prequel novella available called Bliss Uncovered.
Tony’s other books include two action-adventure thrillers, Scream Blue Murder and Cold Winter Sun, featuring reluctant hero Mike Lynch. Also, The Huntsmen and The Predators, feature DS Royston Chase, DC Claire Laney, and PCSO Alison May, both police procedural novels set in Wiltshire. In addition, Tony has written two standalone novels: a dark, psychological crime thriller, Degrees of Darkness, and a suspense thriller set in California, Fifteen Coffins.
Tony's first 8 novels were originally released by a publisher specialising in crime fiction. In 2020, Tony decided to strike out on his own, and subsequently negotiated the return of all publishing rights to himself. Each of those 8 books has subsequently been re-released under his own imprint, Spare Nib Books.
Tony lives with his wife in West Sussex, UK, and is a full-time author. His first love was music, and he is currently gobbling up as many remastered vinyl albums as he can. Tony has played guitar since his early childhood, and despite selling off his collection at one point he has somehow managed to reacquire a new range and is up to 5 without knowing how.
Tony is currently working on Jimmy Bliss books #14, The Stonemason’s Song.
Links
All of Tony’s links can be found on Linktree: https://linktr.ee/TonyJForder
Tony’s other books include two action-adventure thrillers, Scream Blue Murder and Cold Winter Sun, featuring reluctant hero Mike Lynch. Also, The Huntsmen and The Predators, feature DS Royston Chase, DC Claire Laney, and PCSO Alison May, both police procedural novels set in Wiltshire. In addition, Tony has written two standalone novels: a dark, psychological crime thriller, Degrees of Darkness, and a suspense thriller set in California, Fifteen Coffins.
Tony's first 8 novels were originally released by a publisher specialising in crime fiction. In 2020, Tony decided to strike out on his own, and subsequently negotiated the return of all publishing rights to himself. Each of those 8 books has subsequently been re-released under his own imprint, Spare Nib Books.
Tony lives with his wife in West Sussex, UK, and is a full-time author. His first love was music, and he is currently gobbling up as many remastered vinyl albums as he can. Tony has played guitar since his early childhood, and despite selling off his collection at one point he has somehow managed to reacquire a new range and is up to 5 without knowing how.
Tony is currently working on Jimmy Bliss books #14, The Stonemason’s Song.
Links
All of Tony’s links can be found on Linktree: https://linktr.ee/TonyJForder
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
April 25, 2021
This is the eighth book in the DI Bliss series and they just keep getting better and better, I would actually go so far as to say that this is the best yet. The great things about a fantastic series like this is that the characters become like a second family to you and you just can't wait to catch up and see what they have been up to again.
Bliss is a wonderful guy, and it is many of his personal qualities that make him such a great cop. He has an innate ability to get to the heart of each crime he investigates, he is smart, resourceful, loyal and has a heart of gold in which he will always endeavour to fight to the end to catch the perpetrator so that each victim has a voice. He believes in right and wrong and makes sure that those who do wrong will pay for their actions. The story itself is multi-layered, cleverly and imaginatively put together. As with all his books, Tony Forder writes with a sophistication that knows no bounds.
If you have not read any of his books you are really missing out on a cracking good time, there are not too many authors that can continue to produce such quality work on an ongoing basis. The only negative here is that there will be an amount of time that you will have to wait until the next instalment, a small price to pay I believe for such excellent books.
Bliss is a wonderful guy, and it is many of his personal qualities that make him such a great cop. He has an innate ability to get to the heart of each crime he investigates, he is smart, resourceful, loyal and has a heart of gold in which he will always endeavour to fight to the end to catch the perpetrator so that each victim has a voice. He believes in right and wrong and makes sure that those who do wrong will pay for their actions. The story itself is multi-layered, cleverly and imaginatively put together. As with all his books, Tony Forder writes with a sophistication that knows no bounds.
If you have not read any of his books you are really missing out on a cracking good time, there are not too many authors that can continue to produce such quality work on an ongoing basis. The only negative here is that there will be an amount of time that you will have to wait until the next instalment, a small price to pay I believe for such excellent books.
May 14, 2021
Tony Forder yet again knocks it out of the park with this masterclass in story telling. There has to be a point where you stop saying this is their best book yet when reviewing an author but with Tony Forder I haven't reached that yet as his books just get better and better. So yes this Tony Forder's best book yet. The story is a continuation of the Bliss series but I truly believe that you could pick this book up having not read the others and thoroughly enjoy and follow it. Bliss has been demoted and we are following not only the story of the investigation into some horrific murders, but also the emotional journey of a Bliss finding his place in the world and contemplating his future. The additional story of Bliss' out of hours investigation speaks volumes about his self destruction as well as his genuine quest for justice. The story twists and turns. It has a lot of laughs as well as moments where you hold your breath in anticipation as to what happens next. It is everything and so much more that you would expect from Tony Forder. Can't recommend this enough.
April 23, 2021
I've long been a huge fan of Tony Forder's Bliss and Chandler series, and 'Tha Autumn Tree' doesn't disappoint. Quite the opposite - like the other Bliss books, this is a great read, packed with tension. A worthy five stars from me.
April 22, 2021
It has been 9 very very long months since Slow Slicing, the last installment for Bliss. I am not a very patient person, this has been killing me!
As soon as the book arrived on my kindle all other plans were shelved and I dived right into it.
Such is the affinity with the characters, this being the 8th book, the first few chapters felt like catching up and finding out what's happened to everyone in the intervening months. This is one of the strengths of Tony's writing. You are invested in each character, you care about them all.
After Bliss's last case, in which one of his cars ended up in a lake, the cliffhanger of whether he would keep his job was answered. He has been demoted, and Bishop has stepped up. Apart from that the rest of the gang remain the same, and Pen and Bliss are now on an equal standing.
A young woman's body is found under a tree, naked, but a pile of clothes placed nearby. On the body, a card was found that linked back to a previous case and drags Jimmy's name into it.
This is my favourite book of the series. In each book, the writing has improved but this feels like it has gone up a level and some. It felt like I went through all possible emotions. The first third feels quite deep and personal like you are peering too closely into Bliss's private life. There are links back to previous cases, which as an avid reader is a nice touch rather than a necessity to understand the plot. It also seems to women in Bliss's life are starting to call him out on some of his self-destructive behaviour and life choices.
There are two particularly funny laugh-out-loud moments. I would expect nothing less, but these two are absolute corkers.
The intricacies of the plot are incredible, it all ties in together in subtle ways, and the title of the book becomes more and more poignant the further you go.
This is and will always remain one of my favourite series. . I admit I am in love with Bliss and make no secret of it. #blissette
As soon as the book arrived on my kindle all other plans were shelved and I dived right into it.
Such is the affinity with the characters, this being the 8th book, the first few chapters felt like catching up and finding out what's happened to everyone in the intervening months. This is one of the strengths of Tony's writing. You are invested in each character, you care about them all.
After Bliss's last case, in which one of his cars ended up in a lake, the cliffhanger of whether he would keep his job was answered. He has been demoted, and Bishop has stepped up. Apart from that the rest of the gang remain the same, and Pen and Bliss are now on an equal standing.
A young woman's body is found under a tree, naked, but a pile of clothes placed nearby. On the body, a card was found that linked back to a previous case and drags Jimmy's name into it.
This is my favourite book of the series. In each book, the writing has improved but this feels like it has gone up a level and some. It felt like I went through all possible emotions. The first third feels quite deep and personal like you are peering too closely into Bliss's private life. There are links back to previous cases, which as an avid reader is a nice touch rather than a necessity to understand the plot. It also seems to women in Bliss's life are starting to call him out on some of his self-destructive behaviour and life choices.
There are two particularly funny laugh-out-loud moments. I would expect nothing less, but these two are absolute corkers.
The intricacies of the plot are incredible, it all ties in together in subtle ways, and the title of the book becomes more and more poignant the further you go.
This is and will always remain one of my favourite series. . I admit I am in love with Bliss and make no secret of it. #blissette
April 22, 2021
That was brilliant. I’m a massive fan of the Bliss series and always think it can’t get any better. But it can. Yes it can. This is an explosive storyline that kept me on tenterhooks from start to finish.
In brief, following his last case, in Slow Slicing, DI Bliss has been temporarily demoted to DS. With Bishop now acting DI the team are looking into the death of a young woman found naked and strangled under a tree. It appears the murder could be linked to a gangster called Drake who is currently residing at Her Majesty’s Pleasure but whom Bliss is determined to see pay for all his crimes. Meanwhile, off the record Bliss is also trying to find evidence against Watson, who he believes to be a child murderer. As a result, his relationship with Emily is suffering...
Forder really is a master storyteller. I have never read a book of his that I wouldn’t recommend, and this is no exception. The wonderful relationship between Bliss and his work partner Penny Chandler continues with acerbic comments flying in both directions. There are twists and turns that I never expected and the horrific human psyche the book exposes just makes you want to weep. I wish I could give this 6 stars but as I can’t it a resounding 5* from me.
In brief, following his last case, in Slow Slicing, DI Bliss has been temporarily demoted to DS. With Bishop now acting DI the team are looking into the death of a young woman found naked and strangled under a tree. It appears the murder could be linked to a gangster called Drake who is currently residing at Her Majesty’s Pleasure but whom Bliss is determined to see pay for all his crimes. Meanwhile, off the record Bliss is also trying to find evidence against Watson, who he believes to be a child murderer. As a result, his relationship with Emily is suffering...
Forder really is a master storyteller. I have never read a book of his that I wouldn’t recommend, and this is no exception. The wonderful relationship between Bliss and his work partner Penny Chandler continues with acerbic comments flying in both directions. There are twists and turns that I never expected and the horrific human psyche the book exposes just makes you want to weep. I wish I could give this 6 stars but as I can’t it a resounding 5* from me.
May 23, 2021
Having read all the previous books in the series, the arrival of The Autumn Tree was very welcome indeed. A bit like coming out of lockdown and catching up with friends that you haven't seen for nearly a year. Inevitably the beginning of the book is about answering the questions left dangling from the end of Slow Slicing. We find out he has been demoted to the same rank as Penny Chandler (D.S. Bliss doesn't have the same ring to it as D.I. Bliss though!) and that Bishop now has the top job, although he seems to be floundering in his ill-fitting suits and still refers to Jimmy as "Boss". I liked the way pieces of the jigsaw plot came from previous cases (the "Get out of jail free" card found on the first victim, for instance), but Forder writes it in such a way, that a new reader feels instantly fully updated, not like they are being kept in the dark. Unlike viewers of Line of Duty, who if only tuning into series 6 would have missed out on so many sub-texts and meanings if they hadn't seen the first 5 series. Congratulations to Forder for avoiding this pitfall. A new-reader and a previous reader are equally catered for. The banter between Jimmy and Penny is brilliantly written, with some laugh out loud moments. Although we begin to see Bishop grow into his role as inspector, the rest of the team felt a little sidelined this time around. The overall tone of the novel seemed quite melancholy at times, with Bliss wrestling with decisions about his future. I enjoyed it, but unlike the other books which I binge read, this time circumstances were different (pesky work getting in the way of reading!) so I had to read in smaller chunks, which altered the reading experience for me. Endless Silent Scream will always be my favourite, and I would have liked to see more of Molly, rather than the brief teaser mentions, but that is my only grumble. Whether or not this is the end of Bliss, I don't know, time will tell, but if it is, it felt like a fitting end to a brilliant series. It's been a pleasure getting to know Jimmy and Pen and I'll always be grateful for the Amazon glitch which meant getting to read the first five books at a bargain price!
May 27, 2021
If you’ve never read of DI Bliss then I highly recommend you start from the first book and read in order. Yes you can read them as standalones as any background info is given but these are such great reads then I highly recommend you read them all and not lose out.
Bliss and his team have a challenging case on their hand. This author sure knows how to captivate his readers.
I have read and loved the previous Bliss books and The Autumn Tree is another excellent addition to this series.
The storyline is serious as it’s based on human trafficking although we do get some light hearted moments with Bliss and his team.
I’m already looking forward to reading more from this author.
Bliss and his team have a challenging case on their hand. This author sure knows how to captivate his readers.
I have read and loved the previous Bliss books and The Autumn Tree is another excellent addition to this series.
The storyline is serious as it’s based on human trafficking although we do get some light hearted moments with Bliss and his team.
I’m already looking forward to reading more from this author.
May 2, 2021
The Autumn Tree
This is the 8th book in the Bliss series and feels the most gentile: the blood and guts factor is low (but still with times of squirm); the pace of the plot is, at times, pedestrian (yet there are brilliant ways in which we find out more in a short space of time) and there is a definite warm feeling throughout even during the poignant moments.
Bliss has always been a thoughtful character yet this book completely highlights how much he cares for the victims he has previously encountered and the lengths he will go to if he thinks he can save or protect a victim. This is never for the “look at me, I’m saving people” type of attention, it is so he can sleep at night.
The author somehow manages to put a twist on the old “who dunnit?” and ties up loose ends really well and even scoops up references to previous books as well.
The worst thing about this book is feeling that Jimmy Bliss must be nearly finished in his career (it’s the 8th book, he’s getting on a bit, he keeps challenging authority so they must want him out soon?! and other characters are starting to shine through (Chandler is becoming very slick at her job, Bish is on the up, Gul always has the answer)). Maybe all the sage advice Bliss keeps handing out will see him into an advisory role? The slower foreground pace also gives us a feeling things are slowing down for Bliss.
As the worst thing about this book is my own worry that Jimmy has played his best life and I want more, I shouldn’t knock any points off. I just want more!
This is the 8th book in the Bliss series and feels the most gentile: the blood and guts factor is low (but still with times of squirm); the pace of the plot is, at times, pedestrian (yet there are brilliant ways in which we find out more in a short space of time) and there is a definite warm feeling throughout even during the poignant moments.
Bliss has always been a thoughtful character yet this book completely highlights how much he cares for the victims he has previously encountered and the lengths he will go to if he thinks he can save or protect a victim. This is never for the “look at me, I’m saving people” type of attention, it is so he can sleep at night.
The author somehow manages to put a twist on the old “who dunnit?” and ties up loose ends really well and even scoops up references to previous books as well.
The worst thing about this book is feeling that Jimmy Bliss must be nearly finished in his career (it’s the 8th book, he’s getting on a bit, he keeps challenging authority so they must want him out soon?! and other characters are starting to shine through (Chandler is becoming very slick at her job, Bish is on the up, Gul always has the answer)). Maybe all the sage advice Bliss keeps handing out will see him into an advisory role? The slower foreground pace also gives us a feeling things are slowing down for Bliss.
As the worst thing about this book is my own worry that Jimmy has played his best life and I want more, I shouldn’t knock any points off. I just want more!
May 5, 2021
Tony Forder is wicked, I'm making it official. I've had this book sat on my tbr pile for some days. It kept winking at me. But I had the 'save your favourite chocolate in the box until last' syndrome. I gobbled up the rest of the chocolates as quickly as I could!
It's like opening pandora's box with his books, I was already biting my nails before I tentatively opened the first page......
The blurb gives enough to entice you in so I wont add any more to it. A complex, gripping and dark storyline that shocks, chills and excites. Such evil. Such atrocities. The suspense that Tony creates with his writing is truly remarkable. Past investigation cases are mentioned in the book just as a matter of course in conversation, but this by no means effects the understanding of the story it only adds more depth.
I shouted at Bliss while reading this book, when will he learn! Too set in his ways that's his trouble! My emotions were probably directed more towards the author.... you wicked man I was scared to turn the page a few times!
To sum up, first class story telling and one of the best criminal thriller series out there.... long may it continue.
It's like opening pandora's box with his books, I was already biting my nails before I tentatively opened the first page......
The blurb gives enough to entice you in so I wont add any more to it. A complex, gripping and dark storyline that shocks, chills and excites. Such evil. Such atrocities. The suspense that Tony creates with his writing is truly remarkable. Past investigation cases are mentioned in the book just as a matter of course in conversation, but this by no means effects the understanding of the story it only adds more depth.
I shouted at Bliss while reading this book, when will he learn! Too set in his ways that's his trouble! My emotions were probably directed more towards the author.... you wicked man I was scared to turn the page a few times!
To sum up, first class story telling and one of the best criminal thriller series out there.... long may it continue.
May 24, 2021
It is impossible not to love Tony J Forder’s absolutely wonderful Bliss novels. DI Bliss is temporarily demoted to DS Bliss for this book for insubordination but Jimmy cannot help himself due to the total investment he puts into his cases. This one is no exception to that and Bliss gives his all, and more, as always. The humour in this book lifts the storyline a little which adds to the enjoyment. All the old favourites of the team are still there and they are developing their own personalities to support Jimmy as always. Roll on Bliss 9.
April 24, 2021
I’ve now come to expect any story told by Tony Forder to contrast humour and sorrow and this is no exception. Bliss, now demoted to DS, is part of a team looking into the death of a young woman. It happened in a neighbouring area but his team are running the case as one of his business cards was found in the young woman’s possession. There are separate themes interwoven here and it’s both complex and compelling. I wanted to rush on with it but on occasion, I was afraid of what I’d read. This is masterful storytelling and I absolutely loved it.
May 29, 2021
A new Bliss novel has become a highlight of my year; I've read a lot of police procedurals, including books by some of the biggest names in crime fiction and in my opinion this series deserves to rank alongside the best.
Ever since the first book, Bad to the Bone, Jimmy Bliss has been a DI but his actions in the previous novel, Slow Slicing have resulted in his temporary demotion to Detective Sergeant. The title here is poignantly apt for a few reasons, one of which is that Bliss is now in the autumn of his career and at times seems uncertain what he wants from the future. That's true for his personal life as much as his professional - Jimmy Bliss might confront his foes head on but the same can rarely be said of his feelings.
Although The Autumn Tree can be read as a standalone, I recommend reading the previous novels to truly appreciate not just this storyline but the development of the series as a whole. As well as the fallout from his last case still affecting Bliss here, a previous, heartrending investigation is also linked to a new murder which occurs off his patch but involves a key piece of evidence which initially threatens to cast the shadow of doubt on Jimmy himself.
Of course, he gives that suggestion the short shrift it deserves and it is soon revealed just how deeply that case affected Bliss. For a man who has demonstrated his short temper - particularly in his dealings with authority - on numerous occasions, and who frequently deflects the conversation when it turns to more emotional issues, Jimmy has a huge heart and though his actions are sometimes rash or foolhardy, he could never be accused of not caring about his work.
We discover that his concern for the victims he meets doesn't end when the case does and so he knows exactly where to find some of the women he helped in the past. The murdered woman is a stranger to him, however and he needs to figure out why she was carrying one of the cards he handed out to trafficking victims and whether her death is linked to that case or just a tragic coincidence. The investigation ebbs and flows as the team painstakingly examines what little evidence they have.
One of the aspects I most love about this series is that it's not just the Jimmy Bliss show and the Major Crimes team at Thorpe Wood have become an assembled cast of characters I've grown to care about as much as their irascible boss. Except he's not their boss this time; his demotion means Bish has stepped up into the temporary role as DI and although it is a strange situation for them all, they have to find a way to work together. Throughout the series, Bliss has nurtured and supported his team and that continues here but he realises going to have to learn to take a step back if they decide they want to rise higher through the ranks. It's really quite moving seeing Bish take the lead and DC Gul Ansari confidently interview a suspect, especially having followed this series from the start, I have experienced their lowest points alongside them too.
There are some low moments here too and a few scenes which are heartbreaking; this is an extremely emotional case for all involved as the team once again face the very worst of humanity. The victims are some of the most vulnerable in society and are often cruelly vilified by the public so it's moving to see them treated with the compassion - and the dignity - they deserve. As the novel races towards its dramatic conclusion, one such woman endures abuse which is hard to witness but she isn't ever exploited by Tony Forder as yet another faceless victim. We come to know her and I admired her strength in the face of appalling depravity. There's a subplot featuring another unconnected case which again shows Bliss at his best and his worst - he is definitely pushing the boundaries as to what an officer of the law does at times but his unyielding principles can never be doubted.
And yet for all the horror, the humour that has always been such a highlight of these books continues to delight too. There's a wonderful exchange where Bliss is asked if he was born in a barn. I won't give away his response here but it was just one of the scenes which made me laugh out loud. As always, many of the funniest moments take place between Bliss and Penny Chandler, proving once again why they have become my favourite fictional double act.
It's hard to pick a favourite novel in a series which is so reliably excellent but The Autumn Tree is another exceptional piece of writing. It's an exciting, heartfelt rollercoaster of a read and although Bliss may be reaching the final years of his career, this is a series which continues to be as fresh and compelling as ever.
Ever since the first book, Bad to the Bone, Jimmy Bliss has been a DI but his actions in the previous novel, Slow Slicing have resulted in his temporary demotion to Detective Sergeant. The title here is poignantly apt for a few reasons, one of which is that Bliss is now in the autumn of his career and at times seems uncertain what he wants from the future. That's true for his personal life as much as his professional - Jimmy Bliss might confront his foes head on but the same can rarely be said of his feelings.
Although The Autumn Tree can be read as a standalone, I recommend reading the previous novels to truly appreciate not just this storyline but the development of the series as a whole. As well as the fallout from his last case still affecting Bliss here, a previous, heartrending investigation is also linked to a new murder which occurs off his patch but involves a key piece of evidence which initially threatens to cast the shadow of doubt on Jimmy himself.
Of course, he gives that suggestion the short shrift it deserves and it is soon revealed just how deeply that case affected Bliss. For a man who has demonstrated his short temper - particularly in his dealings with authority - on numerous occasions, and who frequently deflects the conversation when it turns to more emotional issues, Jimmy has a huge heart and though his actions are sometimes rash or foolhardy, he could never be accused of not caring about his work.
We discover that his concern for the victims he meets doesn't end when the case does and so he knows exactly where to find some of the women he helped in the past. The murdered woman is a stranger to him, however and he needs to figure out why she was carrying one of the cards he handed out to trafficking victims and whether her death is linked to that case or just a tragic coincidence. The investigation ebbs and flows as the team painstakingly examines what little evidence they have.
One of the aspects I most love about this series is that it's not just the Jimmy Bliss show and the Major Crimes team at Thorpe Wood have become an assembled cast of characters I've grown to care about as much as their irascible boss. Except he's not their boss this time; his demotion means Bish has stepped up into the temporary role as DI and although it is a strange situation for them all, they have to find a way to work together. Throughout the series, Bliss has nurtured and supported his team and that continues here but he realises going to have to learn to take a step back if they decide they want to rise higher through the ranks. It's really quite moving seeing Bish take the lead and DC Gul Ansari confidently interview a suspect, especially having followed this series from the start, I have experienced their lowest points alongside them too.
There are some low moments here too and a few scenes which are heartbreaking; this is an extremely emotional case for all involved as the team once again face the very worst of humanity. The victims are some of the most vulnerable in society and are often cruelly vilified by the public so it's moving to see them treated with the compassion - and the dignity - they deserve. As the novel races towards its dramatic conclusion, one such woman endures abuse which is hard to witness but she isn't ever exploited by Tony Forder as yet another faceless victim. We come to know her and I admired her strength in the face of appalling depravity. There's a subplot featuring another unconnected case which again shows Bliss at his best and his worst - he is definitely pushing the boundaries as to what an officer of the law does at times but his unyielding principles can never be doubted.
And yet for all the horror, the humour that has always been such a highlight of these books continues to delight too. There's a wonderful exchange where Bliss is asked if he was born in a barn. I won't give away his response here but it was just one of the scenes which made me laugh out loud. As always, many of the funniest moments take place between Bliss and Penny Chandler, proving once again why they have become my favourite fictional double act.
It's hard to pick a favourite novel in a series which is so reliably excellent but The Autumn Tree is another exceptional piece of writing. It's an exciting, heartfelt rollercoaster of a read and although Bliss may be reaching the final years of his career, this is a series which continues to be as fresh and compelling as ever.
May 25, 2021
There’s been a bit of a change since book 7 at the Major Crimes Unit in Thorpe Wood, Peterborough. Jimmy Bliss has been demoted to DS, lucky even to keep his job had it not been for the backing of DCI Warburton and DSI Fletcher. DS Olly Bishop is acting up DI, and the rest of the regular team, DS Penny Chandler, DC Gul Ansari, DC John Hunt and DC Phil Gratton are still struggling not to think of Bliss as “boss”. This story starts with Bliss being summoned to a crime scene in Cambridge where the naked body of a young woman has been found strangled to death. A pile of clothing lies near her and tucked away are two business cards. One belonged to Bliss and was one of five he had handed out to trafficking victims he rescued in an earlier story. He has always cared about these women preyed upon both by their slave bosses and also the clients who take advantage of them, and this case is no different. However this woman is not one of those five and Bliss does not recognise her. Both the Cambridge detective and the NCA agent assigned are initially sceptical of Bliss’s explanation for the message on the back of the card but eventually the case is handed over to Peterborough. Bliss believes the victim may be a sex worker connected to the ongoing charges against Lewis Drake. The man has already evaded one murder charge and Bliss would love to charge him with another one. Three card holders are swiftly ruled out, and of the other two, one has returned home and one has run off. After a slow start sifting through possible leads and interviewing some very unsavoury characters, the detectives eventually identify the victim and establish that she was working as an escort, probably moonlighting as well. So was she killed by a violent punter or did her agency bosses make an example of her? Someone was very keen to clean up after themselves. Then suddenly a flash of inspiration from one of the team throws the entire investigation on its head and the whole thing becomes an entirely darker, bigger and more sinister matter. With the very real possibility that another woman could be in danger, the race is on for the team to unravel the layers of lies and deceit to arrive at the staggering truth. And it wouldn’t be Jimmy Bliss without an additional little sub plot seeing him pursuing in his own style another criminal who seems to have slipped through the net.
This is a fast paced and very cleverly written police procedural, with a few heart stopping moments and a superb ending you just won’t see coming. These characters have evolved over the series and now interact seamlessly with each other, the detectives displaying humour, dedication, expertise and a genuine care for each other in equal measures. Bliss is a wonderful character, flawed and fearless, with the heart of a lion and an unparalleled loyalty to those who deserve it. He also needs to see justice done, whether that be within the confines of his job or not and that sometimes can also be his greatest failing. All this adds up to an excellent addition to a highly successful and thrilling series of stories, and I do hope there will be more to come. 5*
This is a fast paced and very cleverly written police procedural, with a few heart stopping moments and a superb ending you just won’t see coming. These characters have evolved over the series and now interact seamlessly with each other, the detectives displaying humour, dedication, expertise and a genuine care for each other in equal measures. Bliss is a wonderful character, flawed and fearless, with the heart of a lion and an unparalleled loyalty to those who deserve it. He also needs to see justice done, whether that be within the confines of his job or not and that sometimes can also be his greatest failing. All this adds up to an excellent addition to a highly successful and thrilling series of stories, and I do hope there will be more to come. 5*
May 25, 2021
Tony, knocks it out if the park again!
Another incredible outing for the freshly demoted DS Bliss.
Following the major fallout from his behaviour and questionable actions, albeit in the pursuit of justice, during his previous case, Bliss is allowed to return to work. Whilst he had to endure a period of probation and a demotion in rank, many top brass think he should have lost his job entirely. The problem is Bliss and his team get results.
When a body turns up in a neighbouring county with one of his business cards on the body, Bliss is called to the scene. He has no clue who the victim is but is desperate to find out how they got their hands on one of only 5 such cards he ever handed out. Having initially been treated as a suspect and with potential links to an ongoing trafficking case, Bliss fights for control of the investigation. He's given a limited timeframe and forced to work with an investigator from the NCA who seems determined to rub everyone up the wrong way.
With the team adjusting to the new hierarchy, with Bliss as a sergeant (the same rank as Penny, which she likes to point out) and Bishop in the role of Boss as acting DI, more young women disappear and whilst investing these, the team are also trying to locate the women from the previous case to ensure they are all safe and well and why one would have given up her card.
What follows is a fast paced, thrilling storyline, full of the interesting characters and cleverly interwoven plot lines that we have come to expect from Tony Forder. For me, in addition to the quality of the story and the writing, its the banter between the team members that helps make these books all the more enjoyable. The anecdote Penny shares with a prison officer and Bliss' comeback had me crying with laughter.
I always start a new Bliss book, racing through the gripping story but always catch myself, in the final third of the book, deliberately slowing down to saviour it all and make it last just that little bit longer as I know it will be a while before the next installment.If you've not yet had the pleasure of reading the other books in the Bliss series, do yourself a favour and treat yourself and delve into the lives of Bliss, Chandler, Bishop and the rest of the team. You won't be disappointed, they truly are incredibly well written books and by the second you will be hooked into seeing the team grow and adapt and wonder what the future holds for them all.
Looking forward to the next one Tony Forder!
Another incredible outing for the freshly demoted DS Bliss.
Following the major fallout from his behaviour and questionable actions, albeit in the pursuit of justice, during his previous case, Bliss is allowed to return to work. Whilst he had to endure a period of probation and a demotion in rank, many top brass think he should have lost his job entirely. The problem is Bliss and his team get results.
When a body turns up in a neighbouring county with one of his business cards on the body, Bliss is called to the scene. He has no clue who the victim is but is desperate to find out how they got their hands on one of only 5 such cards he ever handed out. Having initially been treated as a suspect and with potential links to an ongoing trafficking case, Bliss fights for control of the investigation. He's given a limited timeframe and forced to work with an investigator from the NCA who seems determined to rub everyone up the wrong way.
With the team adjusting to the new hierarchy, with Bliss as a sergeant (the same rank as Penny, which she likes to point out) and Bishop in the role of Boss as acting DI, more young women disappear and whilst investing these, the team are also trying to locate the women from the previous case to ensure they are all safe and well and why one would have given up her card.
What follows is a fast paced, thrilling storyline, full of the interesting characters and cleverly interwoven plot lines that we have come to expect from Tony Forder. For me, in addition to the quality of the story and the writing, its the banter between the team members that helps make these books all the more enjoyable. The anecdote Penny shares with a prison officer and Bliss' comeback had me crying with laughter.
I always start a new Bliss book, racing through the gripping story but always catch myself, in the final third of the book, deliberately slowing down to saviour it all and make it last just that little bit longer as I know it will be a while before the next installment.If you've not yet had the pleasure of reading the other books in the Bliss series, do yourself a favour and treat yourself and delve into the lives of Bliss, Chandler, Bishop and the rest of the team. You won't be disappointed, they truly are incredibly well written books and by the second you will be hooked into seeing the team grow and adapt and wonder what the future holds for them all.
Looking forward to the next one Tony Forder!
May 21, 2021
I make no secret of the fact that I am a Blissful Bliss fan and am thrilled to have had the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. There are so many good things to say about The Autumn Tree, that to be honest I was a bit stumped as to where to begin.
The plot is tricksy, poignant, authentic and though provoking. For me it was a delight to see a thread from an earlier novel picked up once more in The Autumn Tree and pulled to expose another aspect to trafficking, slavery and depravity. Forder is able to explore darkness, but through humour, ensures their is a safety valve in place so we don't boil over completely. It is this sensitivity to the darkness uncovered in The Autumn Tree that makes it such a compelling and authentic read. It can easily be read as a standalone as Forder has dropped enough breadcrumbs for a new reader to fllow, but any new readers will, I'mm sure head right off to the Zon to buy the rest of the series.
One of the triumphs of this long lasting police procedural series is the team dynamics which make you feel as if you are part of the team too. Bliss has to make adjustments in this one, but the camaraderie, gallow's humour and mutual respect amongst his colleagues are a joy to read and again serve to lighten some of the darkness.
Every time I read a Bliss book, I think to myself 'this is the best one yet' ... and every time Forder goes on to prove me wrong, because the next one always seems to surpass the one before. This is true of The Autumn Tree. I thought Slow Slicing was unbeatable, but then the mardy auld bugger(only joking Tony) has gone and blown it out of the park with The Autumn Tree. I've thought a lot about why that is and come to the conclusion that Forder is a master of allowing his characters to grow, age and face new obstacles in each book, which means that they remain fresh and real. Bliss is one of those characters you can engage with. Sometimes I want to yell at him for his self-destructive streak and at others I want to just go for a pint with him and help him sort out his life. Bliss is a man of contradictions and it is these contradictions, his 'dog with a bone' attitude and his unbreakable commitment to those he sees as part of his 'group' that make him such a readable, likable and frustrating character.
The Autumn Tree deals with some very dark themes, that need to be spoken about. Forder deals with them through attention to detail, lots of action, intriguing sub plots and a cast of characters that will remain with you for a long time.
In case you're wondering ... I LOVED THIS BOOK. 5 stars from me.
The plot is tricksy, poignant, authentic and though provoking. For me it was a delight to see a thread from an earlier novel picked up once more in The Autumn Tree and pulled to expose another aspect to trafficking, slavery and depravity. Forder is able to explore darkness, but through humour, ensures their is a safety valve in place so we don't boil over completely. It is this sensitivity to the darkness uncovered in The Autumn Tree that makes it such a compelling and authentic read. It can easily be read as a standalone as Forder has dropped enough breadcrumbs for a new reader to fllow, but any new readers will, I'mm sure head right off to the Zon to buy the rest of the series.
One of the triumphs of this long lasting police procedural series is the team dynamics which make you feel as if you are part of the team too. Bliss has to make adjustments in this one, but the camaraderie, gallow's humour and mutual respect amongst his colleagues are a joy to read and again serve to lighten some of the darkness.
Every time I read a Bliss book, I think to myself 'this is the best one yet' ... and every time Forder goes on to prove me wrong, because the next one always seems to surpass the one before. This is true of The Autumn Tree. I thought Slow Slicing was unbeatable, but then the mardy auld bugger(only joking Tony) has gone and blown it out of the park with The Autumn Tree. I've thought a lot about why that is and come to the conclusion that Forder is a master of allowing his characters to grow, age and face new obstacles in each book, which means that they remain fresh and real. Bliss is one of those characters you can engage with. Sometimes I want to yell at him for his self-destructive streak and at others I want to just go for a pint with him and help him sort out his life. Bliss is a man of contradictions and it is these contradictions, his 'dog with a bone' attitude and his unbreakable commitment to those he sees as part of his 'group' that make him such a readable, likable and frustrating character.
The Autumn Tree deals with some very dark themes, that need to be spoken about. Forder deals with them through attention to detail, lots of action, intriguing sub plots and a cast of characters that will remain with you for a long time.
In case you're wondering ... I LOVED THIS BOOK. 5 stars from me.
May 10, 2021
Oh! I am a little speechless after reading the 8th book in the DI Bliss series. Wow! I never read the synopsis for these Bliss books as I have read every single book in the series. So I went into this one completely blind.
The author didn't hold any punches with this story, it does have a theme that continues from a previous book, that being said you could, I suppose, read this latest instalment as a stand-alone. You would however be missing out on an outstanding series.
DI Jimmy Bliss is currently DS Bliss due to being demoted. This kind of gives the story an additional twist. Rather than being the team's figurehead, he is now one of the floor guys is you like. The thing with Bliss and the rest of the team is the huge respect they have for each other and the closeness that has come with working together. The roles may have changed but the players are still the same, and there is an additional player who comes with strings!
A case is taken over by Bliss, this is due to a past case and why there are strings. The past involves people trafficking and the author has run further with the story in this latest book. This is one of the tougher stories I have read by this author, tougher because of the nature and content of the crimes involved. While the author does go into some detail, he does it in the context of the story.
The story involves such a complex case that has clues coming in left right and centre, all random and with no sort of order or focus. This is then made more complex when another case is also added to the pot. Realising that they have not got time on their side adds pressure.
The author has taken several threads and wonderfully woven them to create a very dark case for the team. Due to the closeness of the team, there is some banter and humour that does break the tension, not only for the characters but also the reader. It gave me a chance to take a big breath before continuing on several times.
The author absolutely knows the bones of his characters. As a reader I have to remind myself that they are not real people, they are characters. The author has given Bliss such a lot to deal with, but deal with it he has. Being an older character I was interested to see poor Bliss feeling his age, and dare I say contemplating his future.
This is one of the darker stories from this author and one that has a gritty and intense feel to it. Not for those who are looking for a cosy crime but one for the hard, crime thriller readers. A fabulous addition to the series and once again the author has left me wondering what will come next! One I would very definitely recommend, it was brilliant.
The author didn't hold any punches with this story, it does have a theme that continues from a previous book, that being said you could, I suppose, read this latest instalment as a stand-alone. You would however be missing out on an outstanding series.
DI Jimmy Bliss is currently DS Bliss due to being demoted. This kind of gives the story an additional twist. Rather than being the team's figurehead, he is now one of the floor guys is you like. The thing with Bliss and the rest of the team is the huge respect they have for each other and the closeness that has come with working together. The roles may have changed but the players are still the same, and there is an additional player who comes with strings!
A case is taken over by Bliss, this is due to a past case and why there are strings. The past involves people trafficking and the author has run further with the story in this latest book. This is one of the tougher stories I have read by this author, tougher because of the nature and content of the crimes involved. While the author does go into some detail, he does it in the context of the story.
The story involves such a complex case that has clues coming in left right and centre, all random and with no sort of order or focus. This is then made more complex when another case is also added to the pot. Realising that they have not got time on their side adds pressure.
The author has taken several threads and wonderfully woven them to create a very dark case for the team. Due to the closeness of the team, there is some banter and humour that does break the tension, not only for the characters but also the reader. It gave me a chance to take a big breath before continuing on several times.
The author absolutely knows the bones of his characters. As a reader I have to remind myself that they are not real people, they are characters. The author has given Bliss such a lot to deal with, but deal with it he has. Being an older character I was interested to see poor Bliss feeling his age, and dare I say contemplating his future.
This is one of the darker stories from this author and one that has a gritty and intense feel to it. Not for those who are looking for a cosy crime but one for the hard, crime thriller readers. A fabulous addition to the series and once again the author has left me wondering what will come next! One I would very definitely recommend, it was brilliant.
May 24, 2021
Gripping, twisty and full of personality…
I have devoured this whole series right from the first book and had been chomping at the bit for this one to come out!
Jimmy Bliss, Penny Chandler, and the rest of the gang are back with another grim tale for our reading entertainment and it hits the mark perfectly.
I never put spoilers in my reviews but be prepared for some shocking twists that will keep you glued to this particular episode of Tony Forder’s police procedural. There is also a more personal feel where we get inside Jimmy’s head a little more to see how his character has developed over the eight books. It’s like getting to know someone better with each story which is really lovely.
Now that I’ve read it I feel that in my haste to immerse myself into this Peterborough-based world I’ve probably not taken in every detail so I plan on re-reading at a slightly slower pace!
This is by one of only three British authors in this genre that can hold my attention and I highly recommend it.
I have devoured this whole series right from the first book and had been chomping at the bit for this one to come out!
Jimmy Bliss, Penny Chandler, and the rest of the gang are back with another grim tale for our reading entertainment and it hits the mark perfectly.
I never put spoilers in my reviews but be prepared for some shocking twists that will keep you glued to this particular episode of Tony Forder’s police procedural. There is also a more personal feel where we get inside Jimmy’s head a little more to see how his character has developed over the eight books. It’s like getting to know someone better with each story which is really lovely.
Now that I’ve read it I feel that in my haste to immerse myself into this Peterborough-based world I’ve probably not taken in every detail so I plan on re-reading at a slightly slower pace!
This is by one of only three British authors in this genre that can hold my attention and I highly recommend it.
May 23, 2021
I was so grateful to receive an ARC copy of this book, my dose of Bliss before publication day.
What do I say? A fantastic read - shall I leave it there? No? Ok then...
DI Bliss is now on probation as a DS; Bishop is acting DI - a situation which they, & the team, find quite tricky to negotiate.
The book starts with the body of a naked young woman being found under a tree. Bliss wants to connect it with Drake, a slimy criminal who is currently in prison, others aren’t so sure. He is also investigating Watson, under the radar & very unofficial, who he believes is a child murderer. With Bliss juggling these three professional balls, his personal life doesn’t really stand a chance.
I loved this book. The style, the wonderful storytelling & the characters. The interaction between Bliss & DS Chandler is brilliant; she tells him as it is, professionally & personally.
This is no straight line story; it takes you places you might not want to go & to think these people really do exist. Highly recommended & I can’t wait for the next one.
What do I say? A fantastic read - shall I leave it there? No? Ok then...
DI Bliss is now on probation as a DS; Bishop is acting DI - a situation which they, & the team, find quite tricky to negotiate.
The book starts with the body of a naked young woman being found under a tree. Bliss wants to connect it with Drake, a slimy criminal who is currently in prison, others aren’t so sure. He is also investigating Watson, under the radar & very unofficial, who he believes is a child murderer. With Bliss juggling these three professional balls, his personal life doesn’t really stand a chance.
I loved this book. The style, the wonderful storytelling & the characters. The interaction between Bliss & DS Chandler is brilliant; she tells him as it is, professionally & personally.
This is no straight line story; it takes you places you might not want to go & to think these people really do exist. Highly recommended & I can’t wait for the next one.
May 24, 2021
Bloody brilliant
Honestly what a roller-coaster... There is a light and dark in everyone of us and what that can do can be amazing or abhorrent. How Tony has shown that with this book is incredible. The twists and turns of the enquiry keep you gripped to the very end with surprises that come out of nowhere. The sadness that people have to endure and the horrors are worthy of nightmares and this book is full of them. How Jimmy is still on his crusade for justice with all he has been through is there for us to enjoy. Each book has got better and better with this one has not disappointed at all. Fully deserving 5 stars and cannot wait for the next installment. Hopefully Jimmy will be fighting fit again.
Honestly what a roller-coaster... There is a light and dark in everyone of us and what that can do can be amazing or abhorrent. How Tony has shown that with this book is incredible. The twists and turns of the enquiry keep you gripped to the very end with surprises that come out of nowhere. The sadness that people have to endure and the horrors are worthy of nightmares and this book is full of them. How Jimmy is still on his crusade for justice with all he has been through is there for us to enjoy. Each book has got better and better with this one has not disappointed at all. Fully deserving 5 stars and cannot wait for the next installment. Hopefully Jimmy will be fighting fit again.
May 9, 2021
I don’t know how the author does it but with each book, it’s better than the last which I keep thinking can’t be possible. It sure is though as Tony J Forder just keeps delivering top class reads.
What makes this series so compelling is Bliss. He is a law unto himself and is probably a nightmare to work with at times but his heart is pure gold. He goes above and beyond, putting himself in danger to catch the criminals and get them off the streets. Trafficking young women is such an horrendous crime in itself and it affected me in ways I didn’t think was possible. I thought the author did a particularly stellar job of portraying Bliss’ emotions throughout the story.
I would love to see this series on the screen and would be so interested to see who would be cast for the role. He isn’t a spring chicken by any means but he seems to have a way with the ladies which I think comes as much as a surprise to him as it does to readers at times. There is just something about his character that is ruggedly attractive that made me want to mother him. Probably not the authors intention but he does have his demons which has you not only routing for him but to take him under your wings also and bring a bit of happiness into his life. But then of course, it wouldn’t be a gripping crime thriller then and where would the enjoyment be in that?
The Autumn Tree is a tense page turner that totally enveloped me and wouldn’t let go. This is an author who creates truly gripping storylines that will pull on the readers emotions. I adore Bliss and his working relationship with Chandler is just top notch and makes for some entertaining reading in itself. This series goes from strength to strength that delivers on all counts, each and every time. If you haven’t discovered Bliss for yourself yet, then you are in for a major treat.
My thanks to the author for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
What makes this series so compelling is Bliss. He is a law unto himself and is probably a nightmare to work with at times but his heart is pure gold. He goes above and beyond, putting himself in danger to catch the criminals and get them off the streets. Trafficking young women is such an horrendous crime in itself and it affected me in ways I didn’t think was possible. I thought the author did a particularly stellar job of portraying Bliss’ emotions throughout the story.
I would love to see this series on the screen and would be so interested to see who would be cast for the role. He isn’t a spring chicken by any means but he seems to have a way with the ladies which I think comes as much as a surprise to him as it does to readers at times. There is just something about his character that is ruggedly attractive that made me want to mother him. Probably not the authors intention but he does have his demons which has you not only routing for him but to take him under your wings also and bring a bit of happiness into his life. But then of course, it wouldn’t be a gripping crime thriller then and where would the enjoyment be in that?
The Autumn Tree is a tense page turner that totally enveloped me and wouldn’t let go. This is an author who creates truly gripping storylines that will pull on the readers emotions. I adore Bliss and his working relationship with Chandler is just top notch and makes for some entertaining reading in itself. This series goes from strength to strength that delivers on all counts, each and every time. If you haven’t discovered Bliss for yourself yet, then you are in for a major treat.
My thanks to the author for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
June 11, 2021
Another Series That never seem to Dip ..A wonderful cast and a Great Story
May 21, 2021
This was my first outing with Mr Forder’s Bliss series and it won’t be my last, so although I’m late to the game as it is part of a series it can be read without it being done so in order there is enough background details to not leave you confused. A great group of characters and not with ridiculous amounts of personal baggage that deflect away from the storyline, a police procedural that is all about the police work and the teams work ethics. It was written in what I would say a true to real life account as can be.
May 16, 2021
When a young woman's body is found by a tree, Jimmy Bliss, demoted temporarily after his last case is called out to the scene after one of his cards is found on the body .With Bishop as acting DI , this will prove to be a case that pushes Bliss and his team to the limits .As a name from the past resurfaces ..Blake , who is currently serving time in Belmarsh jail , Bliss , Chandler and the team go all out to solve the case . For Bliss his burning sense of duty flows through his veins like blood ..Great police officers are made by the path they choose not by the powers they are graced with ..and Jimmy Bliss a man of principle , truth and integrity will see this through at whatever cost ...Once again in The Autumn Tree ..Tony Forder reels the reader in ...A truly Stunning read from start to finish ...
April 27, 2021
4.75* which I’ve rounded up. Gore score 1/5
A great read with an excellently crafted complex plot, with a great twist.
#8 in the Jimmy Bliss series. I haven’t read all of the series, only the first 3. I must say that this reads well as a stand alone, there’s mention of previous cases, but nothing that leaves you scratching your head.
Jimmy has taken a knock to his career after the handling of his last case. He’s thankful to still be at the station and in the team.
He has a grudge with Neil Watson which forms one thread of the book.
On attending the murder of a young woman Bliss discovers his card in her pocket, one of 5 he gave to to trafficked women from a previous case. She isn’t one of those women, so the intrigue begins with the second thread. Both threads have interesting layers to them.
We are plunged straight into the action which is what I enjoy.
I do like the descriptive writing style which is sometimes quite poetic in nature. There is a good dollop of humour too.
Bliss and Chandler have a pesky NCA agent ( Glen Ashton) working with them for their sins. Needless to say, it doesn’t go smoothly.
Bliss is playing fast and loose with the rules, taking crime scene pictures on his phone, sharing them with colleagues via WhatsApp and intimidating villains. He still can’t seem to take his finger off his self destruct button.
I found the book to be mostly medium paced. As much as I love a fast pace I am happy to sacrifice it to get the depth and character development. Occasionally in the early stages I found the pace slowed, I appreciate this equates to the stalling of the case, it’s my only reason for holding back .25 of a star.
I definitely saw more of Jimmy’s softer side in this book which I really liked. Some quite emotional scenes which had me in tears.
I learn about all sorts of subjects reading Tony Forder’s Bliss series. You can tell that he does a lot of research for the books, and includes something different.
A favourite quote from the book ‘patience and diligence Jimmy, patience and diligence’
I highly recommend this book.
A great read with an excellently crafted complex plot, with a great twist.
#8 in the Jimmy Bliss series. I haven’t read all of the series, only the first 3. I must say that this reads well as a stand alone, there’s mention of previous cases, but nothing that leaves you scratching your head.
Jimmy has taken a knock to his career after the handling of his last case. He’s thankful to still be at the station and in the team.
He has a grudge with Neil Watson which forms one thread of the book.
On attending the murder of a young woman Bliss discovers his card in her pocket, one of 5 he gave to to trafficked women from a previous case. She isn’t one of those women, so the intrigue begins with the second thread. Both threads have interesting layers to them.
We are plunged straight into the action which is what I enjoy.
I do like the descriptive writing style which is sometimes quite poetic in nature. There is a good dollop of humour too.
Bliss and Chandler have a pesky NCA agent ( Glen Ashton) working with them for their sins. Needless to say, it doesn’t go smoothly.
Bliss is playing fast and loose with the rules, taking crime scene pictures on his phone, sharing them with colleagues via WhatsApp and intimidating villains. He still can’t seem to take his finger off his self destruct button.
I found the book to be mostly medium paced. As much as I love a fast pace I am happy to sacrifice it to get the depth and character development. Occasionally in the early stages I found the pace slowed, I appreciate this equates to the stalling of the case, it’s my only reason for holding back .25 of a star.
I definitely saw more of Jimmy’s softer side in this book which I really liked. Some quite emotional scenes which had me in tears.
I learn about all sorts of subjects reading Tony Forder’s Bliss series. You can tell that he does a lot of research for the books, and includes something different.
A favourite quote from the book ‘patience and diligence Jimmy, patience and diligence’
I highly recommend this book.
May 5, 2021
The Autumn Tree
As a huge fan and ARC reader of the DI Bliss series, I have been impatiently waiting for this latest book to be released and It did not disappoint. I devoured The Autumn Tree reading long into the night, this really is the best Jimmy Bliss crime story to date.
Now in the ‘autumn’ of his policing career, having a couple of years left to serve though slightly mellowed, Jimmy is still putting himself in danger, I found myself holding my breath at the risks he takes. Having lost his DI status, he and Chandler are both working Major Crimes as Detective Sergeants. Their characters and conversations are so believable, and the dynamics created by the role changes in the squad is fascinating and full of good-natured banter.
Peterborough’s criminal players feature in the enquiries but with several surprising twists. These kept me intrigued and unable to second guess the outcome I was enthralled with the clever plotting I just couldn’t put it down.
As a huge fan and ARC reader of the DI Bliss series, I have been impatiently waiting for this latest book to be released and It did not disappoint. I devoured The Autumn Tree reading long into the night, this really is the best Jimmy Bliss crime story to date.
Now in the ‘autumn’ of his policing career, having a couple of years left to serve though slightly mellowed, Jimmy is still putting himself in danger, I found myself holding my breath at the risks he takes. Having lost his DI status, he and Chandler are both working Major Crimes as Detective Sergeants. Their characters and conversations are so believable, and the dynamics created by the role changes in the squad is fascinating and full of good-natured banter.
Peterborough’s criminal players feature in the enquiries but with several surprising twists. These kept me intrigued and unable to second guess the outcome I was enthralled with the clever plotting I just couldn’t put it down.
May 4, 2021
THE AUTUMN TREE opens with the discovery of a dreadful, chilling scene. A personal connection and early inter-agency hostilities may complicate the investigation. Could this be a terrible, blast from the past? New information comes to light that creates an appalling, major upheaval. Hair-raising suspense builds as the situation escalates, in addition to a monstrous, previous injustice haunting Bliss. Unspeakable horrors are transpiring as the team scrambles to put all the puzzle pieces together. An action packed race against time ensues, concluding with the discovery of monumentally reprehensible circumstances. The travesty tormenting Bliss also heats up culminating in an explosive, unpredictable result.
April 27, 2021
“When dark desires have no limitations, anything is fair game.”
Bliss at his finest. The body of a young woman has been found in Cambridgeshire which is off Jimmy’s patch. He is called in and an NCA person is also there which arouses his suspicions. Jimmy has been temporarily downgraded to DS after an issue on another case and the men he meets at the body are suspicious of his motives as a business card of his with his writing on the back was found in what looks like the girl's belongings. One of Jimmy’s previous cases was of trafficking young women and he and his team saved some from certain death being trapped in a container. Could this latest victim be a link to further organised crime? This is the 8th Bliss book and would stand alone although some nuances may be missed if he others haven’t been read- which I highly recommend- all 5* from me- who doesn't love a bit of Bliss? There is a depth, an almost intimacy of knowing Bliss that skilled writing makes you invested and care what happens to him. He has personality, he has profundity- he can be a complicated being and can also give you laugh out loud moments- a true brilliance of crafted plotted writing. A sidekick in Penny Chandler who says it as it is which brings out the true Bliss. A more personal Bliss this time, some of his layers slightly uncovered but still the heart of a true gentleman, my avuncular friend. Blissful brilliance, what more need I say? :)
Bliss at his finest. The body of a young woman has been found in Cambridgeshire which is off Jimmy’s patch. He is called in and an NCA person is also there which arouses his suspicions. Jimmy has been temporarily downgraded to DS after an issue on another case and the men he meets at the body are suspicious of his motives as a business card of his with his writing on the back was found in what looks like the girl's belongings. One of Jimmy’s previous cases was of trafficking young women and he and his team saved some from certain death being trapped in a container. Could this latest victim be a link to further organised crime? This is the 8th Bliss book and would stand alone although some nuances may be missed if he others haven’t been read- which I highly recommend- all 5* from me- who doesn't love a bit of Bliss? There is a depth, an almost intimacy of knowing Bliss that skilled writing makes you invested and care what happens to him. He has personality, he has profundity- he can be a complicated being and can also give you laugh out loud moments- a true brilliance of crafted plotted writing. A sidekick in Penny Chandler who says it as it is which brings out the true Bliss. A more personal Bliss this time, some of his layers slightly uncovered but still the heart of a true gentleman, my avuncular friend. Blissful brilliance, what more need I say? :)
April 29, 2021
D.I. Jimmy Bliss is back in the latest in this superb series.
He is currently on a short term suspension and also demoted down to Detective Sergeant when he is called out to a dead female body in another area why, because the victim has his business card with a personal message written on the back. Only problem he doesn’t know the victim. So starts one, if not the best book in the series from Tony Forder.
His DS has had to step up to temporary DI and Jimmy is glad to play second fiddle and watch his protégée grow into the role. But typical of Jimmy Bliss there is another case on his mind and not one of his, a killer who escaped justice so can Jimmy goad him into making a mistake.
With the main plot there are some truly odious characters that give the book a sense of darkness that makes Tony’s writing so good.
We see more of the hidden softer side of Jimmy as he contemplates his future with retirement not that far in the future but even that doesn’t stop him plunging headlong into the fray sometimes with disastrous results to his own safety.
Fast paced with lots of threads and references to previous cases this is yet another stand out book from a master story teller up there with Paterson Matt Brolly, and even La Plant and Archer
He is currently on a short term suspension and also demoted down to Detective Sergeant when he is called out to a dead female body in another area why, because the victim has his business card with a personal message written on the back. Only problem he doesn’t know the victim. So starts one, if not the best book in the series from Tony Forder.
His DS has had to step up to temporary DI and Jimmy is glad to play second fiddle and watch his protégée grow into the role. But typical of Jimmy Bliss there is another case on his mind and not one of his, a killer who escaped justice so can Jimmy goad him into making a mistake.
With the main plot there are some truly odious characters that give the book a sense of darkness that makes Tony’s writing so good.
We see more of the hidden softer side of Jimmy as he contemplates his future with retirement not that far in the future but even that doesn’t stop him plunging headlong into the fray sometimes with disastrous results to his own safety.
Fast paced with lots of threads and references to previous cases this is yet another stand out book from a master story teller up there with Paterson Matt Brolly, and even La Plant and Archer
May 4, 2021
Where do I start.....It has been a long and agonising wait since Slow Slicing and by goodness it was worth waiting for! With Bliss and Chandler now on the same footing following his demotion after the last case and Bishop leading the team the body of a young girl is found and on the body is a business card belonging to Bliss. There are so many twists in this book and emotional side plots it is by far the best Bliss book yet. I laughed out loud at the interactions between Penny and Jimmy and can honestly say I experienced every emotion possible reading this book. I have read the full series and admit to being a total Tony Forder fangirl but this would read well as a stand alone. Highly recommend this book, wish I could make everyone read it to see how amazing it is!
April 27, 2021
The Autumn Tree by Tony J Forder is book 8 in the DI Jimmy Bliss series, although after his last case he has been demoted for insubordination to Detective Sergeant and is on probation. Bishop (Bish) is acting as DI in Jimmy’s position. The book opens with the death of a girl, a prostitute, with Jimmy’s card on her, a card he has only given out to 5 girls. Jimmy puts his heart and soul into solving any case he is involved in, to get justice for those who have been wronged. This dedication is usually at the expense of his private life, such as it is. Jimmy goes through so many emotions and the reader does too. love reading Tony’s books. The characters come to life and I have become very invested in them. Love the banter between Jimmy and Pen too. The Autumn Tree weaves in different directions as information comes to light sending the team down one direction after another. Each book in this series seems to be better than the one before and yet they are all so good.
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