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DI Geraldine Steel #16
Deep Cover
The new novel in the million-copy selling Detective Geraldine Steel series A sex worker dies in suspicious circumstances in York. As Detective Inspector Geraldine Steel tries to stay focused on the investigation her partner, Ian Peterson, risks his own life working undercover in London. A second victim is discovered in York while, unknown to Geraldine, Ian is attacked by a sadistic psychopath. For fans of Martina Cole, Mel Sherratt and LJ Ross
320 pages, Paperback
Published November 26, 2021
45 people are currently reading
108 people want to read
About the author
Leigh Russell
70 books335 followersLeigh Russell has sold over a million books in her Geraldine Steel series of crime novels. Published in English and in translation throughout Europe and in China, the Geraldine Steel titles have appeared on many bestseller lists, including #1 on kindle. Leigh's work has been nominated for several major awards, including the CWA New Blood Dagger and CWA Dagger in the Library.
Leigh has also written a trilogy featuring Lucy Hall, set in the Seychelles, Paris and Rome, and two standalone psychological thrillers.
Leigh serves on the board of the Crime Writers Association and chairs the judges for the prestigious CWA Debut Dagger Award.
She is represented by Bill Goodall.
Leigh has also written a trilogy featuring Lucy Hall, set in the Seychelles, Paris and Rome, and two standalone psychological thrillers.
Leigh serves on the board of the Crime Writers Association and chairs the judges for the prestigious CWA Debut Dagger Award.
She is represented by Bill Goodall.
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August 7, 20213.5 rounded up to 4
A sex worker dies in mysterious circumstances in York. As DS Geraldine Steel tries to focused on the investigation, her partner, Ian Peterson, risks his own life working undercover in London. A second victim is discovered in York while, unknown to Geraldine, Ian is attacked by an unknown psychopath.
While investigating the murder of a sex worker who had been found in the local woods, there's not much evidence to go on. Then a second body is found. Ian Peterson, Geraldine's former partner is working undercover in London for the drugs unit.
Although this book is part of a series it can be read as a standalone. The pace is fast in this well thought out book. The story is told through Geraldine, Ian and Thomas's perspectives. I did find some of the story a little far fetched in places.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #OldcastleBooks and the author #LeighRussell for my ARC of #DeepCover in exchange for an honest review.
A sex worker dies in mysterious circumstances in York. As DS Geraldine Steel tries to focused on the investigation, her partner, Ian Peterson, risks his own life working undercover in London. A second victim is discovered in York while, unknown to Geraldine, Ian is attacked by an unknown psychopath.
While investigating the murder of a sex worker who had been found in the local woods, there's not much evidence to go on. Then a second body is found. Ian Peterson, Geraldine's former partner is working undercover in London for the drugs unit.
Although this book is part of a series it can be read as a standalone. The pace is fast in this well thought out book. The story is told through Geraldine, Ian and Thomas's perspectives. I did find some of the story a little far fetched in places.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #OldcastleBooks and the author #LeighRussell for my ARC of #DeepCover in exchange for an honest review.
August 23, 2021
Deep Cover is the sixteenth instalment in the Detective Inspector Geraldine Steel Thriller series set between York and London. 40-year-old Geraldine is called in to investigate when the body of a prostitute is discovered in dense woodland in her hometown of York. Middle-aged Thomas Hill had decided to hire a hooker loitering under a street lamp next to a disused brewery while his wife was out of town for the weekend and his son had gone back to University in London. He invites her back to his house and manages to convince her to accept, despite her reservations, by claiming he will pay her double, but once at home, a fight ensues when she requests payment upfront.
Thomas says he will pay her once they're back in the car as he's left his wallet in there. She then attacks him and he ends up punching her several times resulting in her smashing her head against a coat rack and falling to the floor. Dead. He knows the police may not find his self-defence story believable, so he decides to circumvent them by wrapping the corpse in dirty dust sheets, buying a rusty van and transporting her body to its final resting place: a small clearing in Acomb wood. But someone had seen what he had done and starts to blackmail him to keep quiet. Unfortunately for Geraldine, the case goes cold, but it is given a new lease of life when another body is found smothered in the same DNA.
Meanwhile, elsewhere, 39-year-old DI Ian Peterson has moved to London after Geraldine ended their relationship, but as he hasn't told her that he has taken an undercover assignment with the Drug Squad, she is concerned about him seemingly going missing, which is making it difficult for her to maintain her focus on the murder cases. He's undergone extensive psychological testing as well as focused training and is set for whatever the job brings. Based out of North London, Ian will be mostly working with an undercover team conducting surveillance on members of a highly dangerous drug ring. He hasn't been able to tell anyone where he is or what he's doing due to the nature of the work.
This is a compulsive and enthralling addition to a series that doesn't seem to even be beginning to flail despite being 16 books in. It's full of nail-biting tension, drama, double-crosses, life or death danger, secrets and mystery and intrigue aplenty. It's fast-paced and the chapters alternate between Geraldine and Ian’s initially separate cases before Russell adeptly and cleverly weaves and interconnects them as the book progresses. Divorced and courageous Ian still pines after his ex and Russell does a superb job of describing the peril, seediness and corruption of the gangster underworld. Geraldine is as intelligent and empathetic as ever, but she is distracted by the breakup and regrets it immensely. A riveting, absorbing and thoroughly entertaining thriller. Highly recommended.
Thomas says he will pay her once they're back in the car as he's left his wallet in there. She then attacks him and he ends up punching her several times resulting in her smashing her head against a coat rack and falling to the floor. Dead. He knows the police may not find his self-defence story believable, so he decides to circumvent them by wrapping the corpse in dirty dust sheets, buying a rusty van and transporting her body to its final resting place: a small clearing in Acomb wood. But someone had seen what he had done and starts to blackmail him to keep quiet. Unfortunately for Geraldine, the case goes cold, but it is given a new lease of life when another body is found smothered in the same DNA.
Meanwhile, elsewhere, 39-year-old DI Ian Peterson has moved to London after Geraldine ended their relationship, but as he hasn't told her that he has taken an undercover assignment with the Drug Squad, she is concerned about him seemingly going missing, which is making it difficult for her to maintain her focus on the murder cases. He's undergone extensive psychological testing as well as focused training and is set for whatever the job brings. Based out of North London, Ian will be mostly working with an undercover team conducting surveillance on members of a highly dangerous drug ring. He hasn't been able to tell anyone where he is or what he's doing due to the nature of the work.
This is a compulsive and enthralling addition to a series that doesn't seem to even be beginning to flail despite being 16 books in. It's full of nail-biting tension, drama, double-crosses, life or death danger, secrets and mystery and intrigue aplenty. It's fast-paced and the chapters alternate between Geraldine and Ian’s initially separate cases before Russell adeptly and cleverly weaves and interconnects them as the book progresses. Divorced and courageous Ian still pines after his ex and Russell does a superb job of describing the peril, seediness and corruption of the gangster underworld. Geraldine is as intelligent and empathetic as ever, but she is distracted by the breakup and regrets it immensely. A riveting, absorbing and thoroughly entertaining thriller. Highly recommended.
June 5, 2021
I don't often give 2 stars to a book but on this occasion I really can't give any more. The plot isn't bad and I have read other books in the series so know the characters but the amount of repetition completely spoiled any enjoyment I might have had. This is a short book and could have been reduced by at least another third if all the padding was cut out. Every character goes through the same thought processes again and again. It's almost like the author doesn't believe the reader is capable of understanding what is going on unless she explains it over and over.
Then there is the London thread of the story. I really find it hard to believe that an officer with no experience in under cover work could gain the trust of a criminal so easily and quickly.
I know that this series is very popular but I'm afraid that this installment just wasn't for me.
Then there is the London thread of the story. I really find it hard to believe that an officer with no experience in under cover work could gain the trust of a criminal so easily and quickly.
I know that this series is very popular but I'm afraid that this installment just wasn't for me.
September 21, 2021
The sixteenth book in the DI Geraldine Steel thriller series and it only seems like yesterday when I read book one, 'Cut Short' back in 2o12. It's evident that I'm fully immersed into the series or I wouldn't be here now reviewing book 16, but take it from one who knows, this is the best Geraldine Steel book ever, and I've enjoyed them all.
Why? Apart from it's good to see Geraldine back in her rightful role as inspector, this is good value for money with three interconnected stories in one. Firstly we have the accidental death of a sex-worker, after a fight with the sleazy punter Thomas, who sneaked her into his house while his wife was away. If it wasn't murder, he made it a pretty good imitation of one, when he disposed of the body. Thomas gets deeper into the mire as the story develops with the subsequent blackmail note that's left through his door.
Then there is Geraldine's investigation into the murder, with her new sidekick DS Matthew Bailey, to replace DI Ian Petersen, who has mysteriously disappeared since he and Geraldine had broken up (in the previous book). Despite a lot of heartache, not just from the breakup, but the loss of contact with her twin sister, (which she blamed Ian for), Geraldine, as always, goes more than the extra mile and finds clues where others see a brick wall in her dogged determination to solve the case.
The third element to the book is a mini Ian Petersen story, just like in the days when he had his own series of three books (which I thought were great). Ian has left York and gone to London to work in a high-risk undercover role and infiltrate an extremely dangerous drugs gang. However, all of this is not separate to the main story, Ian has a purpose that is linked to Geraldine's situation and puts himself in grave danger in order to achieve this.
'Deep Cover' is a complete story in itself and could be read as a standalone, but if this is your first trip into Geraldine Steel's world, you will definitely be hungry for more and lucky for you, there is fifteen other books in the series.
I'm now looking forward to January next year when my pre-order of book seventeen, 'Guilt Edged' will be delivered.
Why? Apart from it's good to see Geraldine back in her rightful role as inspector, this is good value for money with three interconnected stories in one. Firstly we have the accidental death of a sex-worker, after a fight with the sleazy punter Thomas, who sneaked her into his house while his wife was away. If it wasn't murder, he made it a pretty good imitation of one, when he disposed of the body. Thomas gets deeper into the mire as the story develops with the subsequent blackmail note that's left through his door.
Then there is Geraldine's investigation into the murder, with her new sidekick DS Matthew Bailey, to replace DI Ian Petersen, who has mysteriously disappeared since he and Geraldine had broken up (in the previous book). Despite a lot of heartache, not just from the breakup, but the loss of contact with her twin sister, (which she blamed Ian for), Geraldine, as always, goes more than the extra mile and finds clues where others see a brick wall in her dogged determination to solve the case.
The third element to the book is a mini Ian Petersen story, just like in the days when he had his own series of three books (which I thought were great). Ian has left York and gone to London to work in a high-risk undercover role and infiltrate an extremely dangerous drugs gang. However, all of this is not separate to the main story, Ian has a purpose that is linked to Geraldine's situation and puts himself in grave danger in order to achieve this.
'Deep Cover' is a complete story in itself and could be read as a standalone, but if this is your first trip into Geraldine Steel's world, you will definitely be hungry for more and lucky for you, there is fifteen other books in the series.
I'm now looking forward to January next year when my pre-order of book seventeen, 'Guilt Edged' will be delivered.
August 15, 2021
Oooh I liked this one. First time I've read this so definitely works as a standalone and the background made me really want to read the others. A great angle in which the story was told. Gripping, shocking, dark, raw. Everything you want in a detective story.
January 8, 2024
This is part of a series but like me you can read this as a standalone as it works, there werent too many questions. I like a good procedural and this one did not disappoint and I do like this author. So now I am to investigate more in this series.
I was given a free copy by netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely my own.
I was given a free copy by netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely my own.
December 30, 2022
Not the best of the series. It's another 'Columbo' style novel so you know who the killer is in the first chapter - I much prefer having a mystery to work out. The sub-plot with Ian in London wasn't at all gripping, and not particularly needed given the ending of the last one. Talking of which, at that point Geraldine had realised she couldn't live without Ian, yet by the start of this one she's thrown him out - again. This gives us yet another book of her constantly whining to herself about how she shouldn't have done so. It all got a bit annoying , honestly. There are a few of the expected bits of bad editing - set in early January, at one point Geraldine says there "at least several months until the spring." Spring is March to May, so that's a couple, not several. Hoping for a mystery in the next one.
August 29, 2021
“There was something addictive about his guilt. He savoured it in secret moments. He assured himself it was harmless. No one else was ever going to find out…”
“Deep Cover” by Leigh Russell is the sixteenth book in the successful Detective Inspector Geraldine Steel series, which began with “Cut Short” in 2009 and was short-listed for the Crime Writers’ Association New Blood Dagger award (for the best crime novels by first-time authors).
***Be warned, some of the below contains spoilers for earlier books in the series!***
The opening of this book immediately plunges us into a new case, with DI Geraldine Steel working with newly transferred DS Matthew Bailey on the suspicious death of Pansy Banks; a sex worker known to her clients as Luscious. In a desperate attempt to avoid being held responsible, her killer has dumped her body in the woods where she is soon discovered by the inevitable group of ramblers (I wonder how often walking groups suffer this in real life – it certainly afflicts them frequently in fiction!). But the killer’s problems are only just beginning, as he receives an anonymous note stating “I know what you did”…
Meanwhile, DI Ian Peterson is playing his own dangerous game down in London. Recently split from Geraldine following his actions in the previous novel “Evil Impulse”, he is now working undercover with the drug squad. As Ian continues he gets drawn deeper into a potentially fatal double game; trying to reconcile his own plan with that of the undercover team, who are none the wiser that Ian has a mission of his own to win back Geraldine.
This is a cracking read in the crime thriller genre. The story is told from three points of view; Geraldine, investigating the murder of two women in as many weeks in York; Ian, taking on dangerous undercover work with the drug squad in London; and Thomas, whose efforts to keep secrets from his wife spiral quickly out of control. I found Thomas to be a really interesting character – the author brilliantly portrays his panic, denial and descent into delusion as the book progresses.
Having not read any of the previous books in the series, I really enjoyed DI Geraldine Steel as the main protagonist. Geraldine is hugely skilled and dedicated to her job, but far from perfect; balancing her own demons (anger with Ian, fear of loneliness, frustration with the case) as she tries to unearth the killer. I look forward to getting to know her more.
Although “Deep Cover” obviously contains some spoilers for the previous titles in the series – with the relationships, actions and their consequences of the earlier books continuing to play out – I was able to enjoy it immensely as a stand-alone even though I’ve not read the earlier books (yet!). That being said, if you’re a fan of police procedurals and crime thrillers and haven’t yet come across this series, it would probably make sense to start at the beginning – I’m sure I’m going to find plenty there to enjoy!
“Deep Cover” was released in the UK on 24th August 2021. Many thanks to NetGalley, the publishers No Exit Press, and of course the author for providing an ebook copy.
“Deep Cover” by Leigh Russell is the sixteenth book in the successful Detective Inspector Geraldine Steel series, which began with “Cut Short” in 2009 and was short-listed for the Crime Writers’ Association New Blood Dagger award (for the best crime novels by first-time authors).
***Be warned, some of the below contains spoilers for earlier books in the series!***
The opening of this book immediately plunges us into a new case, with DI Geraldine Steel working with newly transferred DS Matthew Bailey on the suspicious death of Pansy Banks; a sex worker known to her clients as Luscious. In a desperate attempt to avoid being held responsible, her killer has dumped her body in the woods where she is soon discovered by the inevitable group of ramblers (I wonder how often walking groups suffer this in real life – it certainly afflicts them frequently in fiction!). But the killer’s problems are only just beginning, as he receives an anonymous note stating “I know what you did”…
Meanwhile, DI Ian Peterson is playing his own dangerous game down in London. Recently split from Geraldine following his actions in the previous novel “Evil Impulse”, he is now working undercover with the drug squad. As Ian continues he gets drawn deeper into a potentially fatal double game; trying to reconcile his own plan with that of the undercover team, who are none the wiser that Ian has a mission of his own to win back Geraldine.
This is a cracking read in the crime thriller genre. The story is told from three points of view; Geraldine, investigating the murder of two women in as many weeks in York; Ian, taking on dangerous undercover work with the drug squad in London; and Thomas, whose efforts to keep secrets from his wife spiral quickly out of control. I found Thomas to be a really interesting character – the author brilliantly portrays his panic, denial and descent into delusion as the book progresses.
Having not read any of the previous books in the series, I really enjoyed DI Geraldine Steel as the main protagonist. Geraldine is hugely skilled and dedicated to her job, but far from perfect; balancing her own demons (anger with Ian, fear of loneliness, frustration with the case) as she tries to unearth the killer. I look forward to getting to know her more.
Although “Deep Cover” obviously contains some spoilers for the previous titles in the series – with the relationships, actions and their consequences of the earlier books continuing to play out – I was able to enjoy it immensely as a stand-alone even though I’ve not read the earlier books (yet!). That being said, if you’re a fan of police procedurals and crime thrillers and haven’t yet come across this series, it would probably make sense to start at the beginning – I’m sure I’m going to find plenty there to enjoy!
“Deep Cover” was released in the UK on 24th August 2021. Many thanks to NetGalley, the publishers No Exit Press, and of course the author for providing an ebook copy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2021
This is now the sixteenth adventure for DI Geraldine Steel, and the series remains every bit as fresh and gripping as the very first story. As you can imagine, there is quite a bit of history now and Geraldine's life has been varied, finding out she was adopted and helping her newly discovered birth sister escape the clutches of a drug dealer which led to her getting demoted from the rank of Detective Inspector to Sergeant as a result. She moved to York and found herself working for her former sergeant, Ian Petersen, now a DI and a man she has secretly been in love with for a long time. Still keeping things secret, Ian moved into her flat but she has thrown him out again after finding that he has put her sister Helena (her only blood relative) into hiding to protect her from her pusher without consulting Geraldine first. She is furious with him even though he really had no choice in order to keep her sister alive. So at the start of this story, Ian has temporarily joined the Drugs Squad in London, working undercover, and hoping that once the dealer is off Helena’s back, Geraldine and her sister can be reunited. Of course, Geraldine doesn't know where he is or what he is doing and wonders if he is ever coming back. Meanwhile Thomas seeks out the prostitute he has picked up a few times in the past. Knowing she will soon be moved on, he wants to make his last time special and persuades her to come back to his house. A misunderstanding over money leads to a fight where she falls and dies. Panicking, he devises a plan to dump her body in the woods where it is found the next day by ramblers. But then, while Geraldine and the team of DCI Eileen Duncan, DS Ariadne Croft and new colleague DS Matthew Bailey replacing Ian investigate the death, it looks like someone has seen what Thomas did and threatens him, making him even more paranoid and unpredictable. Ian quickly ingratiates himself as the new bodyguard to major drug dealer and strip club owner Tod Lancaster and reveals his plan, a dangerous game which may mean Geraldine won’t see him or her sister again if it goes wrong. Then another body turns up.
There is plenty of action and tension in this great twisty and riveting plot as the two storylines proceed in parallel while all the time Ian and Geraldine are uppermost in each other's thoughts. Ian took me a little by surprise as he emerged as incredibly tough, fitting in seamlessly in the brutal and seedy world he was tasked to infiltrate, whilst Geraldine is her old tenacious and determined self but struggling to cope as she realizes what she may have lost. Completely absorbing, I think this is one of the best stories in this series – long may it continue! 5*
There is plenty of action and tension in this great twisty and riveting plot as the two storylines proceed in parallel while all the time Ian and Geraldine are uppermost in each other's thoughts. Ian took me a little by surprise as he emerged as incredibly tough, fitting in seamlessly in the brutal and seedy world he was tasked to infiltrate, whilst Geraldine is her old tenacious and determined self but struggling to cope as she realizes what she may have lost. Completely absorbing, I think this is one of the best stories in this series – long may it continue! 5*
August 28, 2021
'Deep Cover' is the sixteenth book in the Geraldine Steel series by Leigh Russell. A series that I have always loved and was so happy to be a part of this tour while at the same time wondering if this book would live up to the standard of the previous ones. Well, I think Leigh has outdone herself this time!
When a sex worker dies in suspicious circumstances in York, Detective Inspector Geraldine Steel struggles to remain focused on the murder investigation: she is distracted by her worries about her colleague and life partner, Ian Peterson, who has disappeared. As Geraldine becomes close to her new DS, Matthew, she is unaware that Ian is working undercover in London, trying to identify a criminal gang who have been targeting her.
As a second victim is discovered in York, and Ian's life is threatened by a psychopath the tension mounts. If he fails in his mission, both he and Geraldine may die...
This time we have a double whammy! We see Geraldine in York investigating the case of a dead woman while Ian is undercover in London with no-one knowing, working with the drugs squad there. We are told the story of both by way of alternating chapters between Geraldine and Ian. Both thinking about each other and their break up while working in different parts of the country.
We see Ian in the gritty, dangerous and corrupted gangster underworld in London working anonymously with a highly dangerous drug gang. Geraldine is handling the death of a prostitute whose body is found in dense woodland. A case that goes cold for Geraldine, until another body is found smothered in the same DNA.
Two cases that Leigh Russell cleverly weaves together as the story unfolds. An enthralling and as always, addictive read that's full of drama, tension that is almost palpable, double crosses, mystery and danger that could cost lives. What I have always liked about this series is the characters and how briliantly they have been created and their development throughout. Returning to this series is like catching up with old friends everytime. This book is another riveting read and another worthy chapter in the Geraldine Steel series.
Thanks to Anne Cater of Random Things Tours, No Exit Press and Leigh Russell for my gifted copy of the book.
When a sex worker dies in suspicious circumstances in York, Detective Inspector Geraldine Steel struggles to remain focused on the murder investigation: she is distracted by her worries about her colleague and life partner, Ian Peterson, who has disappeared. As Geraldine becomes close to her new DS, Matthew, she is unaware that Ian is working undercover in London, trying to identify a criminal gang who have been targeting her.
As a second victim is discovered in York, and Ian's life is threatened by a psychopath the tension mounts. If he fails in his mission, both he and Geraldine may die...
This time we have a double whammy! We see Geraldine in York investigating the case of a dead woman while Ian is undercover in London with no-one knowing, working with the drugs squad there. We are told the story of both by way of alternating chapters between Geraldine and Ian. Both thinking about each other and their break up while working in different parts of the country.
We see Ian in the gritty, dangerous and corrupted gangster underworld in London working anonymously with a highly dangerous drug gang. Geraldine is handling the death of a prostitute whose body is found in dense woodland. A case that goes cold for Geraldine, until another body is found smothered in the same DNA.
Two cases that Leigh Russell cleverly weaves together as the story unfolds. An enthralling and as always, addictive read that's full of drama, tension that is almost palpable, double crosses, mystery and danger that could cost lives. What I have always liked about this series is the characters and how briliantly they have been created and their development throughout. Returning to this series is like catching up with old friends everytime. This book is another riveting read and another worthy chapter in the Geraldine Steel series.
Thanks to Anne Cater of Random Things Tours, No Exit Press and Leigh Russell for my gifted copy of the book.
August 23, 2021
This is something like 16th in the series - which shows no signs of flagging. Probably cos the author does like to mix things up with regard to Geraldine and Ian. A lot! They do have a lot of history and, on occasion, dubious back stories, so to get the best from the book and indeed series as a whole, you'd be better off starting from book one and reading in order. I appreciate that's a lot of books but they are all worth the effort!
So, Geraldine has her work cut out for her in her endeavours to catch the killer of a known sex worked, found dead in a wood. Unusually there's loads of evidence to be found, including DNA, but sadly, no suspect to compare against. We the reader know who the bad guy is as we were witness to his crime. Meanwhile Ian is missing in action as far as Geraldine is concerned. Actually he's gone undercover, in London, to try and right a wrong he did by Geraldine at the end of the previous book...
I think this is probably the weakest book in the series thus far. That said I did really enjoy it as it managed to progress a few series arcs that had been bubbling under and brought a few things to their resolution. Hence my earlier recommendation to read the series in order. I feel that it wouldn't be the best introduction to both author and characters.
The dual plots both kept my attention nicely and got on with themselves at a fair lick with no superfluous padding or waffle. Which made for a nice quick easy, but meaty, read for me. Ok so some of what happened I had to take at face value and wasn't wholly convinced by everything, but I was happy to take one for the team and accept some stuff along the way. Characterisation was goo. Familiar series characters all acted as they should and progressed well during the book, and new characters were all well drawn and played their parts well.
All in all, not the best in the series but it wasn't too taxing to read and it did move the series arcs along. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
So, Geraldine has her work cut out for her in her endeavours to catch the killer of a known sex worked, found dead in a wood. Unusually there's loads of evidence to be found, including DNA, but sadly, no suspect to compare against. We the reader know who the bad guy is as we were witness to his crime. Meanwhile Ian is missing in action as far as Geraldine is concerned. Actually he's gone undercover, in London, to try and right a wrong he did by Geraldine at the end of the previous book...
I think this is probably the weakest book in the series thus far. That said I did really enjoy it as it managed to progress a few series arcs that had been bubbling under and brought a few things to their resolution. Hence my earlier recommendation to read the series in order. I feel that it wouldn't be the best introduction to both author and characters.
The dual plots both kept my attention nicely and got on with themselves at a fair lick with no superfluous padding or waffle. Which made for a nice quick easy, but meaty, read for me. Ok so some of what happened I had to take at face value and wasn't wholly convinced by everything, but I was happy to take one for the team and accept some stuff along the way. Characterisation was goo. Familiar series characters all acted as they should and progressed well during the book, and new characters were all well drawn and played their parts well.
All in all, not the best in the series but it wasn't too taxing to read and it did move the series arcs along. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
August 20, 2021
Leigh Russell has published 24 novels since 2009, mostly featuring DI Geraldine Steel (this is the 16th in that series and the 3rd published in 2021); an average of two per year. Geraldine’s colleague and erstwhile (they have unharmoniously split up) lover, DS Ian Peterson, features in some of her earlier stories and has his own series (of 3 books). In this book he features in a separate story, making this two short novels running in parallel.
In Geraldine’s story, a street prostitute in York s accidentally killed by a punter, who makes a hash of disposing of the body. He has been seen by someone who then proceeds to blackmail him. As the police flail around trying to identify the killer, he slowly becomes more and more paranoid that his wife will find out and hand him in. Geraldine is distracted because Ian has disappeared although a replacement DS looks like a potential love interest
In Ian’s story, he has gone undercover in London, penetrating a drug ring. The secrecy involved means that Geraldine has no idea where he is or what he is involved in. She also doesn’t know that his motive for applying for this role is to trace a particular dealer and persuade him to stop terrorising her twin sister so that the latter can come out of witness protection. He has to take significant risks including faking deaths, as he tries to preserve himself and his colleagues, one of whom is his supposed girlfriend and a potential love interest.
Fans of the series will probably lap it up, but neither plot is particularly original or surprising, nor are they excitingly written to maintain tension in the reader. In particular, the background to the split between the lead characters and the situation involving the sister are rehearsed at several points breaking up the flow without advancing the story.
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publishers and the author for providing me with a draft proof copy for the purpose of this review.
In Geraldine’s story, a street prostitute in York s accidentally killed by a punter, who makes a hash of disposing of the body. He has been seen by someone who then proceeds to blackmail him. As the police flail around trying to identify the killer, he slowly becomes more and more paranoid that his wife will find out and hand him in. Geraldine is distracted because Ian has disappeared although a replacement DS looks like a potential love interest
In Ian’s story, he has gone undercover in London, penetrating a drug ring. The secrecy involved means that Geraldine has no idea where he is or what he is involved in. She also doesn’t know that his motive for applying for this role is to trace a particular dealer and persuade him to stop terrorising her twin sister so that the latter can come out of witness protection. He has to take significant risks including faking deaths, as he tries to preserve himself and his colleagues, one of whom is his supposed girlfriend and a potential love interest.
Fans of the series will probably lap it up, but neither plot is particularly original or surprising, nor are they excitingly written to maintain tension in the reader. In particular, the background to the split between the lead characters and the situation involving the sister are rehearsed at several points breaking up the flow without advancing the story.
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publishers and the author for providing me with a draft proof copy for the purpose of this review.
September 7, 2021
How have we got to book 16 in this series and the quality of them stay the same if not even better?! Once again this was a punchy book but the added plot point of undercover work made it even more exciting. It was a nail-biting read, full of treachery, taut plotlines and a compelling narrative. As I said, this is book 16 in the series but you can read it as a standalone as most of the backstory is mentioned in a concise and informative manner.
Geraldine and Ian are no longer together. Ian has taken an undercover role with the drug squad in London and hasn't even told Geraldine he has left. He is to infiltrate a known gang by putting himself forward as close protection for one of the high ups, Tod. It's his job to get as much information as possible so the police can smash the gang and stop large quantities of drugs from being brought into the UK. Meanwhile, a body of a sex worker has been found in York, but there are hardly any clues as to what has happened to her. Geraldine has a new colleague Matthew who has replaced Ian but she can hardly concentrate on the job as she thinking constantly of her failed relationship and whether she made the right decision.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book but what fascinated me was seeing the killer’s perspective from the start and how one small decision can cause a domino effect and suddenly you are in a bunch of trouble. Not all killers are ruthless and it was intriguing to see pathetic he was, especially after he sees the anonymous note. But yet, is there a monster deep within or is it all about self-preservation…
Ian’s section of the book was fast-paced, action-packed, high octane in energy and full of treachery and double-crosses. It certainly was a change of scene for this series and I loved it.
Deep Cover has intrigue, double crosses, is complex and dark in places and is action-packed! You don't want to miss it.
Geraldine and Ian are no longer together. Ian has taken an undercover role with the drug squad in London and hasn't even told Geraldine he has left. He is to infiltrate a known gang by putting himself forward as close protection for one of the high ups, Tod. It's his job to get as much information as possible so the police can smash the gang and stop large quantities of drugs from being brought into the UK. Meanwhile, a body of a sex worker has been found in York, but there are hardly any clues as to what has happened to her. Geraldine has a new colleague Matthew who has replaced Ian but she can hardly concentrate on the job as she thinking constantly of her failed relationship and whether she made the right decision.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book but what fascinated me was seeing the killer’s perspective from the start and how one small decision can cause a domino effect and suddenly you are in a bunch of trouble. Not all killers are ruthless and it was intriguing to see pathetic he was, especially after he sees the anonymous note. But yet, is there a monster deep within or is it all about self-preservation…
Ian’s section of the book was fast-paced, action-packed, high octane in energy and full of treachery and double-crosses. It certainly was a change of scene for this series and I loved it.
Deep Cover has intrigue, double crosses, is complex and dark in places and is action-packed! You don't want to miss it.
March 5, 2022
This is the sixteenth book in the series featuring DI Geraldine Steele and it certainly didn’t disappoint. At the start of this book we find DI Ian Peterson, who is Geraldine’s secret lover, now working undercover with the Drugs Squad in London. Ian and Geraldine have had a fall out as she discovers that he has put her sister into hiding to protect her for from a drug dealer but never considered consulting her first. Ian is hoping that working undercover in a London he can find the drug dealer and put him away so Geraldine can be reunited with her sister, but Geraldine is unaware of this. Geraldine and her team in York are called out when the body of a young woman is found in nearby woods. This body belongs to a sex worker who was picked up by a punter, Thomas. He takes her home and when they quarrel over money, he pushes her which results in her dying. He panics and puts her body in his car and dumps her in the woods. He didn’t realise that someone has seen him and starts threatening him. While Geraldine is investigating the murder a second body is found. The team are struggling to solve the case as they have the same DNA on both bodies but have no one to compare it with. The book is told in three narratives, Ian in London, Geraldine in York and Thomas, the killer. It is full of tension, action and suspense with plenty of twists and turns. A highly recommended read. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
August 22, 2025
3.5 Stars
Deep Coveris the sixteenth book in the DI Geraldine Steel series by Leigh Russell. This series is a gripping collection of crime fiction novels that masterfully blends crime & investigation, detective/police procedure, suspense, and thought-provoking themes. With dynamic storytelling and intriguing characters, I was hooked from the get-go.
We follow Detective Inspector Geraldine Steel, who is a fiercely intelligent and deeply empathetic investigator. She is a cleverly crafted and fully realised individual with her own unique quirks and flaws. Ms. Russell beautifully balances Geraldine’s professional brilliance with some vulnerability and personal struggles, making her entirely ‘real’ and ‘relatable’. As the series progresses, we are further drawn into her world, where she pursues justice with unwavering determination, even as she grapples with her own burdens.
Each book in the series could be read as a standalone if you wanted, as each instalment presents a new, chilling case, often delving into the darker corners of human nature. But, having said that, I highly recommend reading the entire series from the beginning, as each instalment helps build a bigger picture of Geraldine Steel’s character, development, backstories, etc. And knowing all of that will definitely enhance your overall reading experience.
f you love stories with the perfect blend of psychological depth, thrilling mysteries, and emotional resonance, then this is definitely a series you will want to dive into.
Happy Reading…
Deep Coveris the sixteenth book in the DI Geraldine Steel series by Leigh Russell. This series is a gripping collection of crime fiction novels that masterfully blends crime & investigation, detective/police procedure, suspense, and thought-provoking themes. With dynamic storytelling and intriguing characters, I was hooked from the get-go.
We follow Detective Inspector Geraldine Steel, who is a fiercely intelligent and deeply empathetic investigator. She is a cleverly crafted and fully realised individual with her own unique quirks and flaws. Ms. Russell beautifully balances Geraldine’s professional brilliance with some vulnerability and personal struggles, making her entirely ‘real’ and ‘relatable’. As the series progresses, we are further drawn into her world, where she pursues justice with unwavering determination, even as she grapples with her own burdens.
Each book in the series could be read as a standalone if you wanted, as each instalment presents a new, chilling case, often delving into the darker corners of human nature. But, having said that, I highly recommend reading the entire series from the beginning, as each instalment helps build a bigger picture of Geraldine Steel’s character, development, backstories, etc. And knowing all of that will definitely enhance your overall reading experience.
f you love stories with the perfect blend of psychological depth, thrilling mysteries, and emotional resonance, then this is definitely a series you will want to dive into.
Happy Reading…
June 29, 2021
The 16th book in the DI Geraldine Steel series and I was looking forward to reading this. Although I’ve only read a couple of the previous books. As usual the book was well executed with all three parts to the story interweaving to some degree.
Briefly, there are three narrative strands to this book. Geraldine Steel’s police investigations in York, Ian’s storyline undercover in gangster London and Thomas the unlikely murderer. Geraldine is looking into the murders of a prostitute and another woman who is a gambler. Are the two connected? To the police there appears to be no connection. However, despite the problems in their personal relationship, Geraldine is worried about Ian who has gone undercover, officially to catch high level drug dealers, but he has his own agenda.
Geraldine and Ian will be well known to readers of the series but the characterisation of the new characters was interesting. Thomas is a rather weedy individual who will take no responsibility for his actions, very winey, he isn’t at all likeable. The gangster boss I found a little unbelievable in that he acted scared at times and gullible. Just felt unlikely for someone like him. Geraldine new work partner Matthew is a breath of sunshine and I hope he remains with the team. Overall it was a good read and I can understand why the series has a loyal following ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for an e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Briefly, there are three narrative strands to this book. Geraldine Steel’s police investigations in York, Ian’s storyline undercover in gangster London and Thomas the unlikely murderer. Geraldine is looking into the murders of a prostitute and another woman who is a gambler. Are the two connected? To the police there appears to be no connection. However, despite the problems in their personal relationship, Geraldine is worried about Ian who has gone undercover, officially to catch high level drug dealers, but he has his own agenda.
Geraldine and Ian will be well known to readers of the series but the characterisation of the new characters was interesting. Thomas is a rather weedy individual who will take no responsibility for his actions, very winey, he isn’t at all likeable. The gangster boss I found a little unbelievable in that he acted scared at times and gullible. Just felt unlikely for someone like him. Geraldine new work partner Matthew is a breath of sunshine and I hope he remains with the team. Overall it was a good read and I can understand why the series has a loyal following ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for an e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 16, 2021
I’m told that this is the 16th book in the DI Geraldine Steel police series. Her partner, Ian, is working undercover and no one seems to know where he is or in fact that he is working undercover.
I really don’t like giving so few stars to a work that an Author has given a lot of attention to but this may well be because it’s part of a series and, since I haven’t read the other books, I may well have been at a disadvantage.
One of the things that put me off a little bit was knowing immediately who the murderer is, and I didn’t particularly like the two main protagonists, Steel and Peterson, and certainly didn’t feel a connection towards them but there again, that may well have been because I haven’t read the series.
The plot is a good one however the amount of repetition spoiled the good points and the fact that an officer with no experience in working undercover could gain the trust of a criminal so easily, was a little fragmented and put me off.
However, on the positives, having the killer, Thomas highlighted and playing a pivotal role in more ways than one was a nice twist.
Some of the storyline was a little too far-fetched but there again, I appreciate that some readers love this and perhaps it is just not for me.
Having said that, the book was well written and for fans of the genre and the Author, I could see why they would love it.
I really don’t like giving so few stars to a work that an Author has given a lot of attention to but this may well be because it’s part of a series and, since I haven’t read the other books, I may well have been at a disadvantage.
One of the things that put me off a little bit was knowing immediately who the murderer is, and I didn’t particularly like the two main protagonists, Steel and Peterson, and certainly didn’t feel a connection towards them but there again, that may well have been because I haven’t read the series.
The plot is a good one however the amount of repetition spoiled the good points and the fact that an officer with no experience in working undercover could gain the trust of a criminal so easily, was a little fragmented and put me off.
However, on the positives, having the killer, Thomas highlighted and playing a pivotal role in more ways than one was a nice twist.
Some of the storyline was a little too far-fetched but there again, I appreciate that some readers love this and perhaps it is just not for me.
Having said that, the book was well written and for fans of the genre and the Author, I could see why they would love it.
September 20, 2021
I absolutely love this series but for me it has had it's ups and downs. When Geraldine got demoted I found that she seemed to shrink into herself and I felt like she was struggling. Once again with her working relationship with her colleague Ian went personal it was also a difficult time for her. It felt like she was so up and down and I never knew which version I was going to get. Following the end of the last book I wasn't sure what would happen to Geraldine and Ian, however the opener of this book makes it perfectly clear. Geraldine is working a murder case however her focus is seriously tested as it seems Ian has upped and disappeared. A new colleague DS Matthew makes an entrance and I worried instantly that this may be where it all went wrong.
On the other side of the fence, Ian is now part of the Drugs squad in London and has chosen to work undercover. Unbeknown to Geraldine he is fighting this case in the hope he can resolve the issues between Geraldine and her sister Helen. I really thought you got to see Ian in a new light with this role and I absolutely loved this book. There is plenty of action and although you probably could read this as a standalone, knowing the back story means you as the reader are way more invested in the outcome. I read this in two days and was sad when it finished, however it made me look forward to the next book even more.
On the other side of the fence, Ian is now part of the Drugs squad in London and has chosen to work undercover. Unbeknown to Geraldine he is fighting this case in the hope he can resolve the issues between Geraldine and her sister Helen. I really thought you got to see Ian in a new light with this role and I absolutely loved this book. There is plenty of action and although you probably could read this as a standalone, knowing the back story means you as the reader are way more invested in the outcome. I read this in two days and was sad when it finished, however it made me look forward to the next book even more.
August 5, 2021
Deep Cover by Leigh Russell is the 16th book in the DI Geraldine Steel series, although Deep Cover is my introduction.
In short, DI Geraldine Steel whilst investigating a murder case she finds herself struggling to remain focused due to the disappearance of her colleague and partner, Ian Paterson.
Deep Cover is three stories woven into one, Geraldine’ s murder case, Ian’s undercover investigation and Thomas’s, the killer in Geraldine’s case, self preservation mission.
If you like a good old British crime series and you are familiar with the DI Geraldine Steel series, which has a huge following, then this is probably for you, however, I thought although the story was ok it didn’t wow’ me…unfortunately I lost interest in Geraldine’s case and found myself skipping bits which I very rarely do in a book!! Either this isn’t a series for me or it’s just unfortunate that I read this book first!
Big thanks to Geraldine Steel, No Exit Press and NetGalley for this eARC which I chose to read in return for my honest review.
In short, DI Geraldine Steel whilst investigating a murder case she finds herself struggling to remain focused due to the disappearance of her colleague and partner, Ian Paterson.
Deep Cover is three stories woven into one, Geraldine’ s murder case, Ian’s undercover investigation and Thomas’s, the killer in Geraldine’s case, self preservation mission.
If you like a good old British crime series and you are familiar with the DI Geraldine Steel series, which has a huge following, then this is probably for you, however, I thought although the story was ok it didn’t wow’ me…unfortunately I lost interest in Geraldine’s case and found myself skipping bits which I very rarely do in a book!! Either this isn’t a series for me or it’s just unfortunate that I read this book first!
Big thanks to Geraldine Steel, No Exit Press and NetGalley for this eARC which I chose to read in return for my honest review.
August 18, 2021
5 stars are not enough for this book! I absolutely loved every minute of this and was completely hooked from the first line. A fan of The Geraldine Steel series from the first book and a member of the ‘Bring Back Ian Peterson’ gang I was looking forward to reading this but there is always the risk, as often happens in long running series, that it will be a bit ‘meh’. Nothing meh about this! Number 16 in the series and I think quite possibly it is the best one yet. The book is like a double bonus as we follow Geraldine in York as she investigates a case of a dead woman and Ian in London as he goes undercover with the drugs squad. The two stories are told in alternating chapters, all the while the two characters think about each other. Both plots are excellent and gripping. I used to think Ian was a bit of a wimp and Geraldine was the strong character but he certainly shows his worth here. Nice developments in the subplot and the introduction of a new character which I hope we see more of in the future
August 31, 2021
Deep Cover by Leigh Russell, published by noexitpress is book number 16 in the Geraldine Steel series but can be read as a standalone.
Detective Inspector Geraldine Steel is investigating the murder of a sex worker who has been found in the local woods but she is finding it hard to focus, as her partner has moved away following their recent split. Unbeknown to Geraldine, Ian has moved to London to work undercover, trying to take down a criminal drugs gang.
The two investigations run parallel in this novel making it a pacey, intriguing read. Ian's work is dangerous and gritty, adding a dark edge to the storyline. Geraldine's investigation takes an unexpected turn as another body is found and the hunt for a serial killer is on.
An action-packed police drama full of twists and lots of tension. Leigh puts her characters to the forefront of her novels making for a compelling read. If you love police procedurals then why not add this series to your reading list.
Detective Inspector Geraldine Steel is investigating the murder of a sex worker who has been found in the local woods but she is finding it hard to focus, as her partner has moved away following their recent split. Unbeknown to Geraldine, Ian has moved to London to work undercover, trying to take down a criminal drugs gang.
The two investigations run parallel in this novel making it a pacey, intriguing read. Ian's work is dangerous and gritty, adding a dark edge to the storyline. Geraldine's investigation takes an unexpected turn as another body is found and the hunt for a serial killer is on.
An action-packed police drama full of twists and lots of tension. Leigh puts her characters to the forefront of her novels making for a compelling read. If you love police procedurals then why not add this series to your reading list.
May 4, 2021
This is the 16th book in the DI Geraldine Steel police procedural series, set in York. Her partner, Ian has gone undercover in London, being unable to tell anyone he was going. Geraldine is working on a sex worker murder incident with no obvious clues or suspects. It doesn’t help that Geraldine is worrying about what’s happing with Ian, especially the way their relationship had ended recently.
It’s another well plotted book, fast paced with established main characters, who are believable and likeable. The chapters are split between Ian’s under cover work, Geraldines murder investigations and the murderers attempt to convince himself he’s outwitted the police. Absorbing story telling, and I’m sure this won’t be the last book in this series.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
It’s another well plotted book, fast paced with established main characters, who are believable and likeable. The chapters are split between Ian’s under cover work, Geraldines murder investigations and the murderers attempt to convince himself he’s outwitted the police. Absorbing story telling, and I’m sure this won’t be the last book in this series.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
May 22, 2021
I'm a huge fan of Leigh Russell and was beyond chuffed to get the ARC of this latest Geraldine Steele novel. It certainly doesn't disappoint, there are three different narratives, Geraldine is investigating the murder of a sex worker in York, her adopted hometown. The murderer's story is told from his point of view, I found him very irritating with his selfish poor me attitude and self-preservation at all costs. Ian, Geraldines partner and boss decides to take the opportunity to work undercover in London after Geraldine informs him that their relationship is over. Ian is determined to do everything he can to win her back, Geraldine is regretting acting in haste but Ian is the last person she is likely to admit her feelings to. and so they just go around in circles. There is so much going on in this book, it is a great addition to the series. which I can highly recommend.
August 5, 2021
Detective inspector Geraldine Steel is back - there’s a murder of a prostitute in York, but something isn’t right - it doesn’t feel like a ‘normal’ murder of a working girl.
Meanwhile, Ian Peterson, Geraldine’s ex boyfriend and work partner has gone south to London without warning. What is he up to?
Whilst Geraldine tries to understand what has happened to the prostitute, Ian finds himself in gangland London - working for one of the big guns of the underworld. He has to rely on his new team for his safety - especially when he is told to get rid of one of his new colleagues.
Had me hooked from the beginning - Deep Cover is another great thriller from Leigh Russell.
Thanks to #Netgalley for the chance to read this great book.
Meanwhile, Ian Peterson, Geraldine’s ex boyfriend and work partner has gone south to London without warning. What is he up to?
Whilst Geraldine tries to understand what has happened to the prostitute, Ian finds himself in gangland London - working for one of the big guns of the underworld. He has to rely on his new team for his safety - especially when he is told to get rid of one of his new colleagues.
Had me hooked from the beginning - Deep Cover is another great thriller from Leigh Russell.
Thanks to #Netgalley for the chance to read this great book.
April 19, 2022
This is the 16th book in a series…I didn’t know this before I bought it so I went in blind! Luckily this worked as a stand alone, but I definitely want to go back and read the rest now! I absolutely love crime fiction and this was the perfect read for a crime fiction fan. Geraldine is likeable and relatable, which gives the book the edge of the reader wanting to see her kept safe. The topic of this book was really interesting and gave me Line of Duty vibes, especially with the undercover stuff. I found Geraldine and Thomas’ chapters slightly more interesting than Ian’s, and I didn’t like Ian’s side of the story as much. I think it’s because it was a bit more brutal and violent. But still, this was a great book and I’m definitely going to look into reading the rest of this series.
August 2, 2021
This is another book in the DI Geraldine Steel series but works fine as a standalone. Geraldine is in York investigating the death of a sex worker, whilst her colleague (and recently ex-partner), Ian, has been whisked off to London with hardly any notice to work undercover.
A second killing happens in York, which ramps up Geraldine’s investigation, and Ian seems to be at high risk from the drug dealers he’s undercover with.
This had me hooked from the start and I really enjoyed it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Oldcastle Books/No Exit for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.
A second killing happens in York, which ramps up Geraldine’s investigation, and Ian seems to be at high risk from the drug dealers he’s undercover with.
This had me hooked from the start and I really enjoyed it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Oldcastle Books/No Exit for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.
August 30, 2021
My first book by this author and what an absolute thriller. This story is told in three POVs. Geraldine is investigating the murder of a sex worker. Then we have the second POV, the killer. I really have to say I found him annoying. Lastly we have Ian, Geraldine's boss.
This is definitely a fast paced, well written thriller with established main characters. I really enjoyed the writing style and with short chapters I found it easy to read. Absolutely loved the indepth understanding of police procedures and can see alot of research had gone into it.
If you are a thriller fan, you will definitely enjoy this.
This is definitely a fast paced, well written thriller with established main characters. I really enjoyed the writing style and with short chapters I found it easy to read. Absolutely loved the indepth understanding of police procedures and can see alot of research had gone into it.
If you are a thriller fan, you will definitely enjoy this.
March 29, 2022
Firstly, I would like to thank Net Galley for the opportunity to read this book.
It is the first book in this series that I have read, and it worked ok as a stand alone story. DI Geraldine Steel is investigating the death of a sex worker in York, whilst her erstwhile partner, DI Ian Paterson, is, unknown to her, sent to London to work undercover in a gangland drugs case.
These were two very different cases, the only thread between them was the relationship between the two main characters. I enjoyed the York case, which was a good story, and quite believable, but I thought the London case was not. In real life, I doubt Ian would have survived as long.
It is the first book in this series that I have read, and it worked ok as a stand alone story. DI Geraldine Steel is investigating the death of a sex worker in York, whilst her erstwhile partner, DI Ian Paterson, is, unknown to her, sent to London to work undercover in a gangland drugs case.
These were two very different cases, the only thread between them was the relationship between the two main characters. I enjoyed the York case, which was a good story, and quite believable, but I thought the London case was not. In real life, I doubt Ian would have survived as long.
May 8, 2021
I was pleased to receive an ARC from Leigh Russell and Oldcastle Books for this title, having followed Geraldine Steel and Ian Peterson from the series beginning.. This book is slightly different in that.after a break up in the previous book, Ian has disappeared to London to work under cover and he and Geraldine work entirely different cases. It works well as the cases complement each other. His has the danger element while Geraldine works the procedural. It is an excellent addition to the series and as enjoyable as usual, even if read as a stand alone. I look forward to the next one.
August 11, 2021
This is my second outing with DI Geraldine Steele, and like before, I struggled to get my teeth into it. On paper, it sounds like a fascinating police procedural, but somehow it dragged and some parts needed a serious suspension of disbelief. I was initially intrigued by the killer's perspective being included in the story, but I wasn't that keen about the narrative alternating between Geraldine and her ex Ian. Also, Ian's undercover adventure was rather over-the-top.
(Review copy from NetGalley)
(Review copy from NetGalley)
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