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Inspector David Graham #7
The Case of the Forsaken Child
★★★★★ "These books certainly have the potential to become a PBS series with the likable Inspector Graham and his fellow officers." An undercover detective. A tragic mistake. The past returns to haunt the inspector… Plagued by devastating memories, Detective Inspector David Graham moved to the island of Jersey to put his past behind him. But he can’t seem to escape the shadow of anger and guilt clouding his heart. When an undercover cop confides in Graham that her cover is blown, he uncharacteristically underreacts. Soon afterward, she is killed, and Graham's feelings of guilt bubble to the surface. If only he had done more… The dogged inspector suspects foul play, but he’ll have to tread lightly to avoid alerting the killers and ruining the dead officers' investigation. Can Inspector Graham and his team solve the crime before more damage is done? And will the inspector finally put his ghosts to rest? The Case of the Forsaken Child is a fiendishly clever whodunnit, with twists you won’t see coming, and characters you'll grow to love. It is the seventh book in this best-selling traditional British detective mystery series with a modern twist. "Welcome back Inspector Graham. Another superb entry in this superb series." Praise for the Inspector David Graham mystery
"This book is terrific!"
"This was far more than a cozy mystery. The depth and many layers of the story are captivating."
"I loved it! So much happens and a few loose ends get closed. An awesome book!" Books in the Inspector David Graham mystery
The Case of the Screaming Beauty
The Case of the Hidden Flame
The Case of the Fallen Hero
The Case of the Broken Doll
The Case of the Missing Letter
The Case of the Pretty Lady
The Case of the Forsaken Child
The Case of Sampson's Leap Buy your copy today because you don't want to have any regrets.
"This book is terrific!"
"This was far more than a cozy mystery. The depth and many layers of the story are captivating."
"I loved it! So much happens and a few loose ends get closed. An awesome book!" Books in the Inspector David Graham mystery
The Case of the Screaming Beauty
The Case of the Hidden Flame
The Case of the Fallen Hero
The Case of the Broken Doll
The Case of the Missing Letter
The Case of the Pretty Lady
The Case of the Forsaken Child
The Case of Sampson's Leap Buy your copy today because you don't want to have any regrets.
362 pages, Paperback
Published November 15, 2020
About the author
Alison Golden
105 books337 followersAlison Golden is the USA Today bestselling author of the Inspector David Graham mysteries, a traditional British detective series, and two cozy mystery series featuring main characters Reverend Annabelle Dixon and Roxy Reinhardt. As A. J. Golden, she writes the Diana Hunter thriller series.
Alison was raised in Bedfordshire, England. Her aim is to write stories that are designed to entertain, amuse, and calm. Her approach is to combine creative ideas with excellent writing and edit, edit, edit. Alison’s mission is simple: To write excellent books that have readers clamoring for more.
Alison is based in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and twin sons. She splits her time between London and San Francisco.
To receive three free books, updates about new releases, exclusive promotions, and other insider information, sign up at: http://www.alisongolden.com.
Alison was raised in Bedfordshire, England. Her aim is to write stories that are designed to entertain, amuse, and calm. Her approach is to combine creative ideas with excellent writing and edit, edit, edit. Alison’s mission is simple: To write excellent books that have readers clamoring for more.
Alison is based in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and twin sons. She splits her time between London and San Francisco.
To receive three free books, updates about new releases, exclusive promotions, and other insider information, sign up at: http://www.alisongolden.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
January 1, 2021
I loved reading this installment of An Inspector David Graham Mystery Series, my favorite in the series so far. The characters are entertaining and realistic. The story is engaging and keeps the reader guessing at whodunit. There is no shortage of suspects, and the clock is ticking to solve the mystery before the conference ends. I wanted to speed through the book to find out who was behind the mystery. I kept my cool and enjoyed the book at a normal pace. I am looking forward to the next installment.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
November 18, 2020
Absolutely wonderful mystery! The Inspector David Graham series is my favourite. I have loved this entire series, and this is the best book yet. Even though I wanted to rush through it to find out what happens, I found myself taking my time and savoring it.
In this one, the Gorey Constabulary is hosting a Police conference. When an undercover officer is killed the first day of the conference, sad memories from Inspector David Graham’s past are stirred up. As he and his team work to discover if the death was a murder, we meet the people from his past and learn about his challenges. The mysteries are complex, the clues are like building a puzzle and the resolution is perfect.
What captures me the most in this series are the characters. Each member of David’s team is growing and maturing through the experiences in this series which makes them feel like people I know and I certainly care about. All the characters in these books are complete with back stories and motivations. The location is the Island of Jersey. The descriptions allow me to envision the places and how the characters fit. The entire series is so engaging that I went for a walk through some of the places on the island through Google maps. It was everything I expected.
While you could read this book as a stand-alone, I highly recommend reading the entire series from the beginning.
In this one, the Gorey Constabulary is hosting a Police conference. When an undercover officer is killed the first day of the conference, sad memories from Inspector David Graham’s past are stirred up. As he and his team work to discover if the death was a murder, we meet the people from his past and learn about his challenges. The mysteries are complex, the clues are like building a puzzle and the resolution is perfect.
What captures me the most in this series are the characters. Each member of David’s team is growing and maturing through the experiences in this series which makes them feel like people I know and I certainly care about. All the characters in these books are complete with back stories and motivations. The location is the Island of Jersey. The descriptions allow me to envision the places and how the characters fit. The entire series is so engaging that I went for a walk through some of the places on the island through Google maps. It was everything I expected.
While you could read this book as a stand-alone, I highly recommend reading the entire series from the beginning.
September 1, 2021
Clever, entertaining and intriguing. I finished today because I couldn't put it down. All of the characters have become friends since I started this series and I was happy to see that all of the team had a part to play in this mystery.
November 21, 2020
DI David Graham and the Gorey Constabulary are in the midst of a big event for them--hosting a national police conference. It's a lot of work, with DS Janice Harding a co-organizer of it. It's a chance for Harding and others to shine for a wider audience. And it's a chance for Graham to see old friends and colleagues he hasn't seen since moving to Jersey.
But during a gathering at the pub after the end of Friday's first day of programming, one of the detectives from the Met, who has been working undercover on a drug case, tells him her cover has been blown. She won't, however, accept his advice to report this to her handler, or even accept the offer of one of his own officers to walk her back to her hotel.
Not long after the officers have all left the pub, undercover officer Kimberley Devine is dead, killed in a hit-and-run with no known witnesses, in an area where the CCTV coverage is lousy.
Soon David Graham is investigating his own old colleagues and friends, while confronting his own painful loss and lingering guilt, as well as being harassed by Freddy Solomon, Gorey's own muckraking police--or rather, anti-police--blogger, determined to unearth all the lazy, sloppy, or corrupt police work he's sure is going on.
Unfortunately, one of the suspects in the death of Kimberley Devine is Graham's old boss and dearly respected mentor, Superintendent Nigel Needham. He's old now, nearing retirement, and in the early stages of Alzheimer's. And he knows it, but he's trying to hang on to his approaching retirement date.
His expensive rental car proves to have damage consistent with what would have been caused to the car that hit Devine at high speed, and killed her. There's also no evidence that proves it was his car that hit her--but none that proves it was some other car, either. And Needham can't fully account for his movements, due to his quite evidently failing short-term memory.
The conference and the investigation combine to push all Graham's juniors to stretch their skills. Jim Roach is moved to think about whether he wants to pursue forensic training even if it means leaving Jersey. Jack Wentworth, the Constabulary's part-time IT guy, demonstrates security and decryption skills his colleagues hadn't previously suspected. Janice Harding and David's girlfriend, Laura Beecham, find themselves both helping a struggling ten-year-old who might be the needed witness to the crash, and assisting Graham in his unexpected but effective memory techniques.
All our familiar characters are both growing, and revealing more of themselves. In a truly unexpected development, this includes Freddy Solomon.
It's a good mystery, and a good visit with old friends who continue to grow more interesting. Recommended.
I received a free electronic galley of this book from the author, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
But during a gathering at the pub after the end of Friday's first day of programming, one of the detectives from the Met, who has been working undercover on a drug case, tells him her cover has been blown. She won't, however, accept his advice to report this to her handler, or even accept the offer of one of his own officers to walk her back to her hotel.
Not long after the officers have all left the pub, undercover officer Kimberley Devine is dead, killed in a hit-and-run with no known witnesses, in an area where the CCTV coverage is lousy.
Soon David Graham is investigating his own old colleagues and friends, while confronting his own painful loss and lingering guilt, as well as being harassed by Freddy Solomon, Gorey's own muckraking police--or rather, anti-police--blogger, determined to unearth all the lazy, sloppy, or corrupt police work he's sure is going on.
Unfortunately, one of the suspects in the death of Kimberley Devine is Graham's old boss and dearly respected mentor, Superintendent Nigel Needham. He's old now, nearing retirement, and in the early stages of Alzheimer's. And he knows it, but he's trying to hang on to his approaching retirement date.
His expensive rental car proves to have damage consistent with what would have been caused to the car that hit Devine at high speed, and killed her. There's also no evidence that proves it was his car that hit her--but none that proves it was some other car, either. And Needham can't fully account for his movements, due to his quite evidently failing short-term memory.
The conference and the investigation combine to push all Graham's juniors to stretch their skills. Jim Roach is moved to think about whether he wants to pursue forensic training even if it means leaving Jersey. Jack Wentworth, the Constabulary's part-time IT guy, demonstrates security and decryption skills his colleagues hadn't previously suspected. Janice Harding and David's girlfriend, Laura Beecham, find themselves both helping a struggling ten-year-old who might be the needed witness to the crash, and assisting Graham in his unexpected but effective memory techniques.
All our familiar characters are both growing, and revealing more of themselves. In a truly unexpected development, this includes Freddy Solomon.
It's a good mystery, and a good visit with old friends who continue to grow more interesting. Recommended.
I received a free electronic galley of this book from the author, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
December 10, 2020
The Gory police department is hosting the national police conference on the island. All is going well the first day and DI Graham has been looking forward to some interesting panels and speeches. At the end of the day, DI Graham and some of his old buddies from the main land (the metropolitan police), decide to go down to the local pub and socialize. To make the conference even better for Graham is that is mentor, Superintendent Needham has come to the conference and they can reminisce. And Graham's old police buddy, Trevelyan has come complete with his undercover detectives Vincenti, O'Hearn and Kimberly Devine have come as well. When one of Trevelyan's undercover police, Kimberly Devine gets what looks like a disturbing text saying her cover has been blown. She leaves the pub after mentioning the text to DI Graham who tells her to tell Trevelyan, her handler. She just says she wants to leave and go back to her hotel right now. Unfortunately, as she is walking back to her hotel, she gets hit by a car - a hit and run! Could she have been targeted because of her position? But who would have known she was on the island at a conference? Was it an accident? Or was she targeted? DI Graham and his crew are up to the investigation. A new twist to this book shows DI Graham suffering from PTSD with the memory of his young daughter that was killed and his girlfriend Laura helping him through some rough patches! I LOVE this series and especially where the characters of Graham and Laura are right now. This is a must read series and a must read book in this series although it can be read as a standalone. I received and ARC from the author but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
February 7, 2024
Another great mystery from this talented author. I love the author's style of writing and she certainly knows how to suck the listener into the story. So much so that you feel like you are on the small island solving the mystery along side the characters and what a mystery it is. There was a lot of twist and turns in this book and with all Jersey Constabulary working on the same case it was definitely an interesting one. I had no idea who the killer was so it was a good job Detective Inspector David Graham and his team were working the case. I love the characters in this series, the way they have grown into a real team and I always jump at the chance to join them in another investigation.
The Jersey Constabulary are hosting the annual police event, with officers from far and wide attending the event. After the first day talks success a group heads to the local pub to unwind. But the night ends in tragedy when one of there own is killed in a hit and run. Detective Inspector David Graham and his team are back on the job, was it an accident? Or something more sinister? The more they investigate the more they fear that her cover getting blown was because of one of there own. Is there a dirty cop on the island or is Jersey an easy target for London thugs?
I like the narrator. He does just a good job, that I can't imagine anybody else giving a voice to this special group of characters, like he can.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
The Jersey Constabulary are hosting the annual police event, with officers from far and wide attending the event. After the first day talks success a group heads to the local pub to unwind. But the night ends in tragedy when one of there own is killed in a hit and run. Detective Inspector David Graham and his team are back on the job, was it an accident? Or something more sinister? The more they investigate the more they fear that her cover getting blown was because of one of there own. Is there a dirty cop on the island or is Jersey an easy target for London thugs?
I like the narrator. He does just a good job, that I can't imagine anybody else giving a voice to this special group of characters, like he can.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
November 21, 2020
I was so happy to see another in the Inspector Graham series, and once again the Jersey Team does not disappoint! The characters have definitely matured and story lines advanced, but that is what I like to see in a long running series. Our lives change and relationships grow easier (or harder) over time so I would expect to see that in a well developed book series as well. It also allows for the introduction of 'new blood', which I hope we find as the saga of Inspector Graham goes forward.
"The Case of the Forsaken Child" is a step above your typical Cozy Mystery in both story line and layers. We get a small glimpse into the dark world of 'deep undercover' police work and the toll it can take on those heroes who live there; someone as forgetful as myself will be fascinated by the Memory Palace experience juxtaposed against the threat to another character of Alzheimer's Disease (and I have to wonder if in practice one could offset the other?); who IS the Forsaken Child? Billy? Katie? There are so many different ways to "forsake" a child; ultimately we are each responsible for our decisions, however, is ANY of the blame mitigated by our circumstances?
Finally I would like to say KUDOS to the author and editing team! I find that with most digital Cozy reads I spend most of my time cringing at the grammatical errors and typos which seem to go completely unchecked. This book has been very well edited and was a pleasure to read. Thank You!
"The Case of the Forsaken Child" is a step above your typical Cozy Mystery in both story line and layers. We get a small glimpse into the dark world of 'deep undercover' police work and the toll it can take on those heroes who live there; someone as forgetful as myself will be fascinated by the Memory Palace experience juxtaposed against the threat to another character of Alzheimer's Disease (and I have to wonder if in practice one could offset the other?); who IS the Forsaken Child? Billy? Katie? There are so many different ways to "forsake" a child; ultimately we are each responsible for our decisions, however, is ANY of the blame mitigated by our circumstances?
Finally I would like to say KUDOS to the author and editing team! I find that with most digital Cozy reads I spend most of my time cringing at the grammatical errors and typos which seem to go completely unchecked. This book has been very well edited and was a pleasure to read. Thank You!
November 24, 2020
The Gorey constabulary is hosting a police conference. There are about 100 police officers there. At the end of the first day, they gathered at a pub to talk about the day's events. Inspector David Graham notices that a young undercover officer seems to be preoccupied with her phone. He talks with her and discovers her cover has been blown. He wants to get someone to walk with her back to her hotel. She refuses and says she can take care of herself. He should insist but doesn't because she is sure she will be fine and he is preoccupied with his own thoughts concerning his daughter and his late wife. Something is happening down the road. Turns out there has been a hit and run and someone is dead. It is the undercover agent. Now Graham has this weight to carry on his shoulders. The next day as things start to get underway, an undercover agent is electrocuted when he touches a mike that is handed to him. Turns out the two agents were working on the same case. How did their cover get blown? Did someone at the conference recognize them? This case must be solved quickly. Everyone is working nonstop around the clock. This was an exciting book to read. I didn't want to put it down. It was fast-paced. There are a number of things going on at once. How can Graham remember so many details? Alison has done another wonderful job with this story.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from the author and I'm voluntarily posting a review. My opinion is entirely my own.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from the author and I'm voluntarily posting a review. My opinion is entirely my own.
November 17, 2020
The latest entry from Alison Golden in the DI Graham series, The Case of the Forsaken Child, is another outstanding offering of lite British Mysteries.
The theme is something different in that it takes place on the Isle of Jersey, but hosts a hundred plus law officers representing all of England. This conference is the main focus of the story line and offers a look at some interesting, new characters. Ms. Golden does an excellent job of framing the personalities in their real life situations. She captures the readers interest by building up a life-like feeling of each character as they progress throughout the story. If the reader enjoys feeling like they are part of the story then Ms. Golden is the author they should be reading. I find that soon after I start reading a new edition of the Graham mysteries that I get so engrossed that I don't want to put the book down. At the point I pause my reading I find I want to continue and find out how the cast in the story are progressing.
Good, clean cozy mysteries that paint a great picture of the Isle and the inhabitants keeps you wanting more and to know who is responsible for the murder(s). Ms. Golden holds your interest with the main story line and adds many pleasant and quirky side stories that enhance the overall readers experience. Kudos to Alison Golden on yet another great read!!!
The theme is something different in that it takes place on the Isle of Jersey, but hosts a hundred plus law officers representing all of England. This conference is the main focus of the story line and offers a look at some interesting, new characters. Ms. Golden does an excellent job of framing the personalities in their real life situations. She captures the readers interest by building up a life-like feeling of each character as they progress throughout the story. If the reader enjoys feeling like they are part of the story then Ms. Golden is the author they should be reading. I find that soon after I start reading a new edition of the Graham mysteries that I get so engrossed that I don't want to put the book down. At the point I pause my reading I find I want to continue and find out how the cast in the story are progressing.
Good, clean cozy mysteries that paint a great picture of the Isle and the inhabitants keeps you wanting more and to know who is responsible for the murder(s). Ms. Golden holds your interest with the main story line and adds many pleasant and quirky side stories that enhance the overall readers experience. Kudos to Alison Golden on yet another great read!!!
November 17, 2020
The Gorey Constabulary is hosting the National Police Conference on the island of Jersey. Inspector Graham has worked with some of the officers earlier in his career while in London. One of the attendees is Superintendent Nigel Needham, Inspector Graham's former mentor. The presentations are given by various participants in the conference.
One of the visiting officers, Kimberly Devine had been working undercover and confided in Graham that she feared her cover had been blown. After leaving the pub that evening, DS Devine is killed by a hit-and-run driver. Kimberly's death stirred up old memories of the death of Graham's daughter, Katie, who also died in an auto accident. Freddie Solomon, author of the Gorey Gossip, seems to take great pleasure in belittling the local police in order to sensationalize his blog. The death of a second officer at the conference adds to the turmoil.
Was Devine's death an accident or murder? Are the deaths of the two officers related? Can Inspector Graham and his team uncover the culprit before more officers die?
Alison Golden has created a very complex mystery with numerous suspects and plenty of suspense. Working through old demons only adds to the complexity of the story. I am anxiously awaiting more books in this wonderful series.
One of the visiting officers, Kimberly Devine had been working undercover and confided in Graham that she feared her cover had been blown. After leaving the pub that evening, DS Devine is killed by a hit-and-run driver. Kimberly's death stirred up old memories of the death of Graham's daughter, Katie, who also died in an auto accident. Freddie Solomon, author of the Gorey Gossip, seems to take great pleasure in belittling the local police in order to sensationalize his blog. The death of a second officer at the conference adds to the turmoil.
Was Devine's death an accident or murder? Are the deaths of the two officers related? Can Inspector Graham and his team uncover the culprit before more officers die?
Alison Golden has created a very complex mystery with numerous suspects and plenty of suspense. Working through old demons only adds to the complexity of the story. I am anxiously awaiting more books in this wonderful series.
November 17, 2020
Another great Inspector David Graham book. After a good day at a police conference the group of police go to a pub for a good time. All are having a grand time telling old stories and remembering their start as officers, except one officer who is working undercover. She is not happy looking and keeps looking at her phone. Graham notices this and talks to her. She admits she is worried because she has been burned, but refuses and escort to walk her home. As the others leave the pub it is noticed that there is something going on down the street. We they get there they notice a body on the road. It was a hit and run. It turns out to be the undercover agent. Was this a horrific accident of was it murder. It is decided the conference continues. Then another accident happens in front of all, or was this also a murder. The second undercover officer is now dead. Lots of speculation and suspects to go around. Will Graham and his team be able to find the truth. Then there is the blogger who keeps blogging unfavorable things about the team in charge of the investigation. This book kept me interested in the story and on the edge of my seat to find out what happened next. This is a must read if you enjoy a good mystery.
November 18, 2020
The Case of the Forsaken Child - a review by Rosemary Kenny
In what could be an episode of Bergerac, Detective Inspector David Graham's team is hosting a police conference on the Channel Island of Jersey, in The Case of the Forsaken Child, by the illustrious Alison Golden and co-author Grace Dagnall.
After a day-long session the attendees assemble at a nearby pub to relax, only to be shocked when one of the female undercover officers from London is found dead shortly afterwards, following a hit-and-run incident while on her way back to her hotel for the night...was it a tragic accident, or something more sinister?
Is Inspector Graham right to blame himself for not preventing this senseless death?
What past event does Kimberly's death trigger for him?
With a red-hot, riveting police chase to prevent the heinous murderer fleeing the island and a brilliantly clever unmasking of guilt and motive at the thrilling conclusion, The Case of the Forsaken Child, (An Inspector David Graham Mystery series' Book 7) by Alison Golden and Grace Dagnall, will keep you on the edge of your seat right to the very end.
Don't miss your chance to own and enjoy this first-class crime-thriller, by getting your copy today!
In what could be an episode of Bergerac, Detective Inspector David Graham's team is hosting a police conference on the Channel Island of Jersey, in The Case of the Forsaken Child, by the illustrious Alison Golden and co-author Grace Dagnall.
After a day-long session the attendees assemble at a nearby pub to relax, only to be shocked when one of the female undercover officers from London is found dead shortly afterwards, following a hit-and-run incident while on her way back to her hotel for the night...was it a tragic accident, or something more sinister?
Is Inspector Graham right to blame himself for not preventing this senseless death?
What past event does Kimberly's death trigger for him?
With a red-hot, riveting police chase to prevent the heinous murderer fleeing the island and a brilliantly clever unmasking of guilt and motive at the thrilling conclusion, The Case of the Forsaken Child, (An Inspector David Graham Mystery series' Book 7) by Alison Golden and Grace Dagnall, will keep you on the edge of your seat right to the very end.
Don't miss your chance to own and enjoy this first-class crime-thriller, by getting your copy today!
November 23, 2020
Oh, Inspector Graham, how I've missed you!
The other day, I came across my review of the first Inspector Graham mystery, and how I liked it, but not as much as Alison Golden's other series...I don't know what I was thinking, I really don't. The Inspector Graham series is so much fun! It has plenty of suspense and action, minus the gritty, dark, and edgy language, sex, and violence of many of today's crime dramas and novels. It feels like a good old-fashioned mystery, similar to Columbo, or Inspector Poirot.
This was an interesting premise. A cop is murdered - at a police conference in Gorey, of all places. Who'd want to kill Detective Devine, and why would they choose to do so on an island, swarming with officers?
Golden kept me guessing as to who did it, giving plenty of suspects to choose from, and kept my suspicions shifting. I never guessed the actual culprit, nor their motive.
While there are plenty of Agatha Christie novels out there, we can't read any new ones. So, if you're craving something Christie-ish, but set in modern times, Inspector Graham and his small unit of intrepid officers might just be your cup of tea. (Tea also features frequently in this story, in case you were wondering.)
The other day, I came across my review of the first Inspector Graham mystery, and how I liked it, but not as much as Alison Golden's other series...I don't know what I was thinking, I really don't. The Inspector Graham series is so much fun! It has plenty of suspense and action, minus the gritty, dark, and edgy language, sex, and violence of many of today's crime dramas and novels. It feels like a good old-fashioned mystery, similar to Columbo, or Inspector Poirot.
This was an interesting premise. A cop is murdered - at a police conference in Gorey, of all places. Who'd want to kill Detective Devine, and why would they choose to do so on an island, swarming with officers?
Golden kept me guessing as to who did it, giving plenty of suspects to choose from, and kept my suspicions shifting. I never guessed the actual culprit, nor their motive.
While there are plenty of Agatha Christie novels out there, we can't read any new ones. So, if you're craving something Christie-ish, but set in modern times, Inspector Graham and his small unit of intrepid officers might just be your cup of tea. (Tea also features frequently in this story, in case you were wondering.)
November 30, 2020
Well, Alison Golden has done it again. Her books simply absorb you and take you on a journey. This is more than a crime story though, so be prepared for it to tug at your heartstrings, particularly with Billy's character: the adorable and brainy 10 year old. The characterisation is a highlight. The Superintendent of DI's youth appears and we are "shown" what he is going through. Those early stages of dementia scenes felt very real, but also touching given the role he plays. Laura's character also shined as she skillfully appeals to the town's gossip’s conscience. DI Graham also experiences growth as he works through his grief. Without getting into details, it was done thoughtfully and beautifully.
Whilst I figured out the murderer part way through, I was still glued to the end. I was fascinated by finding out how DI Graham solved the mystery as well as the why. Alison has added an epilogue as usual, which I love, as it closes off all the small threads she wove through. You don't need to read all the books in the series to enjoy this one, but be aware, you will be hooked and want to read them all anyway!
Whilst I figured out the murderer part way through, I was still glued to the end. I was fascinated by finding out how DI Graham solved the mystery as well as the why. Alison has added an epilogue as usual, which I love, as it closes off all the small threads she wove through. You don't need to read all the books in the series to enjoy this one, but be aware, you will be hooked and want to read them all anyway!
November 17, 2020
“He’s a good lad, our Graham. Likes bringing on his younger colleagues, mentoring them, and emphasizing the importance of ongoing professional training. We both do. It’s a very satisfying part of the job. Balances out the nastier bits.”
DI Graham and his team are back in the 7th outing of the series. This time, they're hosting a conference with over 100 other constabulary attending. However, one participant dies before the start of the conclave and another succombs on stage. Were they accidents...or more?
I love these characters. Alison Golden mixes mystery, characters, romance (?) in a way that what could be seen as "just another mystery" keeps you reading non-stop until the conclusion. Highly Recommended 5/5
[disclaimer: I received this book as a gift from the writer and chose to read and review it]
DI Graham and his team are back in the 7th outing of the series. This time, they're hosting a conference with over 100 other constabulary attending. However, one participant dies before the start of the conclave and another succombs on stage. Were they accidents...or more?
I love these characters. Alison Golden mixes mystery, characters, romance (?) in a way that what could be seen as "just another mystery" keeps you reading non-stop until the conclusion. Highly Recommended 5/5
[disclaimer: I received this book as a gift from the writer and chose to read and review it]
November 17, 2020
Detective Inspector Graham and his team are hosting a conference on the island. There are close to 100 officers being represented from various departments across the UK.
Everything is going good until DI Graham starts heading out for a prearranged dinner. He comes across a hit-and-run, recognizing one of the visiting officers. As she had told him she thought her cover had been blown on an op. He now has to determine if it was just an accident, or if the officer had been targeted.
With another officer taken down the next day, The Gorey station has its hands full.
And to make matters worse, the Gorey Gossip (an online blog) is not helping, as it’s read by one of DI Graham’s biggest critics.
This is a very good story with developed characters that obviously had a good bit of research put into it. I would place this one as one of the top 10 books I’ve read this year.
Everything is going good until DI Graham starts heading out for a prearranged dinner. He comes across a hit-and-run, recognizing one of the visiting officers. As she had told him she thought her cover had been blown on an op. He now has to determine if it was just an accident, or if the officer had been targeted.
With another officer taken down the next day, The Gorey station has its hands full.
And to make matters worse, the Gorey Gossip (an online blog) is not helping, as it’s read by one of DI Graham’s biggest critics.
This is a very good story with developed characters that obviously had a good bit of research put into it. I would place this one as one of the top 10 books I’ve read this year.
November 19, 2020
"The Case of the Forsaken Child" is another great read in the Inspector Graham series by Alison Golden. The Inspector is in the middle of a police conference on the Isle of Jersey when two of the participants are mowed down unexpectedly. Both of the deceased were undercover cops on the same case. As Graham is trying to find out who is responsible he finds himself reliving the death of his daughter. It is a death that he has never truly dealt with and must now bring closure to this part of his life. As I read this book, as in her other novels I find myself travelling to the site and living with the characters in the stories. I enjoy so much traveling with Alison Golden as she proficiently spins her tales. I found myself staying up way past my bedtime so eager was I to finish this book. Very enjoyable and highly recommended for all who enjoy good writing of a fun mystery.
January 14, 2021
A police conference on the island of Jersey is being hosted by the Jersey force, the delegates include undercover officers from London. At the end of the first day one of the undercover agents is knocked down and killed by a hit and run driver.
The main character in this series, DI Graham feels responsible because the woman had told him that her cover had been blown, but he hadn't considered that there was a threat.
As always with an Alison Golden novel the characters are beautifully drawn and believable and their actions are always in keeping with their characters. The plot is complex and multi-layered and the resolution, despite the hint in the title, was still a surprise.
I thoroughly enjoyed this latest book in this clever and involving series and can't wait for the next one in the series.
I received an advance copy of the book and have voluntarily written this honest review.
The main character in this series, DI Graham feels responsible because the woman had told him that her cover had been blown, but he hadn't considered that there was a threat.
As always with an Alison Golden novel the characters are beautifully drawn and believable and their actions are always in keeping with their characters. The plot is complex and multi-layered and the resolution, despite the hint in the title, was still a surprise.
I thoroughly enjoyed this latest book in this clever and involving series and can't wait for the next one in the series.
I received an advance copy of the book and have voluntarily written this honest review.
February 1, 2021
DI Graham and his team at the Gorey Station are hosts for this year’s Annual Police Convention. But when one of the officers is killed in an apparent hit and run, Graham takes it personally especially since right before this accident, she had confided in him that she thought her cover was blown in their undercover investigation. So once again, he and his team come together to solve the unthinkable, each playing to their personal strengths. The story had a nice pace, and I really enjoy the relationships between the characters. Graham is also trying to come to grips with being in a romantic relationship, balancing work and personal life. This was a great mystery with lots of twists and turns. Looking forward to the next adventure. Disclosure: I am voluntarily reviewing this book and all opinions are strictly my own.
August 17, 2023
I've enjoyed this whole series. The characters are likable, though there's an element of the improbable surrounding the main investigator. But that doesn't at all detract as far as I'm concerned.
I will say this one was oddly titled -- I'm still not entirely sure what a 'Forsaken child' has to do with anything. The set up is that the Gorey police are hosting a conference to which officers from all around England have come -- including Graham's old boss, others he knows from his time at the Met, and some officers currently working an undercover operation. At the end of the first evening as the group is leaving the bar where they'd been socializing, one of the visiting DCs is killed in a presumed hit and run.
I'd actually pegged the solution fairly early on, but it was still enjoyable to read how they pursued the investigation. I'll certainly continue with the series.
I will say this one was oddly titled -- I'm still not entirely sure what a 'Forsaken child' has to do with anything. The set up is that the Gorey police are hosting a conference to which officers from all around England have come -- including Graham's old boss, others he knows from his time at the Met, and some officers currently working an undercover operation. At the end of the first evening as the group is leaving the bar where they'd been socializing, one of the visiting DCs is killed in a presumed hit and run.
I'd actually pegged the solution fairly early on, but it was still enjoyable to read how they pursued the investigation. I'll certainly continue with the series.
February 8, 2024
Audiobook: I was entertained by book 7 of the "Inspector David Graham Mysteries" series. The Constabulary, located on Jersey, was hosting a police training conference. During a gathering at the local bar, an undercover cop admitted to Inspector Graham that her cover was blown. Later that night, the cop was killed. The Inspector and his team needed to solve the case to determine whether it was an accident or murder. This mystery was as tricky and complicated as I have come to hope for while absorbing one of these stories. This was the first time that I recognized and appreciated the nod to another great detective in literature. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. Matt Jamie's narration added excitement to an already entertaining story. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review.
November 25, 2020
I do love the Inspector Graham series. It reminds me of all the great British mysteries. Alison Golden has a wonderful way of laying out the story without giving too much away too soon. I did notice the story focused more on the crime than the romance of the characters. Given that this book takes place during a police conference in Jersey I didn't find that strange at all. You would expect that all efforts to solve the case would be focused on the case, not one's personal life. I would say that this book was less of a cozy mystery than the other books in the series. That is not a negative or a positive just an observation. I look forward to reading more of Inspector Graham's adventures on the Island of Jersey always a good read.
December 3, 2020
Fiendishly clever whodunnit!
I have so missed the Inspector Graham books but he is back doing what he does best, in this book full of twists, turns and spurts of action!
Inspector Graham and his team are investigating two deaths but are they unfortunate accidents or wilful murder? Do they have a connection to an old friend, who is struggling or something more sinister?
Inspector Graham and his methods of getting to the truth are great to read, as he allows details to unfold, he pieces them together using the expertise of his officers.
Great action scenes, real page turner moments and characters that have you rooting for them!
I hope it isn't too long before the next Inspector Graham adventure!
I have so missed the Inspector Graham books but he is back doing what he does best, in this book full of twists, turns and spurts of action!
Inspector Graham and his team are investigating two deaths but are they unfortunate accidents or wilful murder? Do they have a connection to an old friend, who is struggling or something more sinister?
Inspector Graham and his methods of getting to the truth are great to read, as he allows details to unfold, he pieces them together using the expertise of his officers.
Great action scenes, real page turner moments and characters that have you rooting for them!
I hope it isn't too long before the next Inspector Graham adventure!
November 17, 2020
This was another good visit to Gorey with Detective Inspector David Graham. This time
They are hosting a police conference on the island with over 100 officers attending.
The first night one of their own is killed by a hit and run driver. Was it an accident or was
It murder? While trying to solve this case another one develops. Det. Graham and his team
Have their hands full and the local press is delighting in their misfortune. But never fear, DI Graham
Always gets his man or woman. This also had some added romance with several different couples.
Lots of red herrings and romance too. Couldn’t be better!
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
They are hosting a police conference on the island with over 100 officers attending.
The first night one of their own is killed by a hit and run driver. Was it an accident or was
It murder? While trying to solve this case another one develops. Det. Graham and his team
Have their hands full and the local press is delighting in their misfortune. But never fear, DI Graham
Always gets his man or woman. This also had some added romance with several different couples.
Lots of red herrings and romance too. Couldn’t be better!
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
November 17, 2020
Inspector Graham and his team host a police conference on the Isle of Jersey. Everyone enjoys the conference until one the attendees dies in a hit and run accident. Then another dies on stage at the beginning of a debate. The local blogger gets in the middle everything and stirs things up. Join Inspector Graham as he enjoys his tea, mentors his team, solves the crimes, and attempts to balance work and a budding relationship with Laura, the local librarian. I've enjoyed the development of the characters through out the seven books of this series. A very enjoyable cozy mystery with no sex or foul language.
November 18, 2020
A wonderful and exciting mystery. Once more a murder happens on Inspector David Graham's turf and not only a probable murder but the murder of another officer at a police conference on the island of Jersey. To make matters worse, the local gossip site is complaining about the local police. When a second death happens in front of the entire convention hall of officers and both officers were involved in the same undercover investigation the stakes go up. With a great plot with great characters and a logical conclusion, the book has everything a mystery reader could ask. I highly recommend the book.
November 27, 2020
The Gorey Police department are hosting the National Police conference for over 100 officers from the surrounding area. In the middle of the conference two officers who are attending are killed under unusual circumstances. Detective Inspector Graham is heading up the investigation but there is very little to go on. Suspects abound even among the officers attending the conference and it's up to Graham to weed through them to find the killer. Lots of dead ends and lots of excitement later and Graham has his man. This is the first Inspector Graham book I have read and I'll definitely be going back for more!
November 28, 2020
Another excellent story in the Inspector David Graham Mysteries series. With a hundred police officers on the island for a conference, no one expects anyone to be bold enough to commit a heinous crime--much less two. DI Graham and his constabulary work relentlessly to solve the murders. With plenty of twists and turns and numerous suspects, the book kept me glued to my e-reader until the very end. I enjoyed getting to know all the regulars a little better and watching their lives and relationships evolve. My only complaint is I felt there was too much filler in the story. If you enjoy a good mystery, I urge you to read the entire series. It just keeps getting better.
December 8, 2020
Inspector Graham and his team have arranged for a police conference on their little island. All is going well until one of the undercover officers attending the conference is run over. How is this possible with all the officers around? Then a second person is murdered and things really get complicated. When I first started this book I felt like I had missed a book. The characters have changed in personality quite a bit since the last one. I did find that a bit of a challenge. The mystery surrounding the murders was excellent though. So many twists and turns along with the personal happenings made for a great read. I received this book to review and the opinions are all my own
November 12, 2025
Graham's behavior towards Laura in the beginning annoyed the heck outta me, the way he kept giving her promises and breaking them without even calling her. And yes, I know that a murder happened and he felt responsible but, really, it would've taken him two minutes to call her and explain what was happening yet it didn't even occur to him. What does it say about their relationship? Laura truly had the patience of a saint.
The case itself was interesting but I'm giving it four stars mainly for the supporting cast this time, for Graham's crew, because Graham himself was pissing me off big time.
The case itself was interesting but I'm giving it four stars mainly for the supporting cast this time, for Graham's crew, because Graham himself was pissing me off big time.
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