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Billie Wilde #1
The Magpie
A killer who runs rings around the police. A detective who is out of control.
Meet DSI Wilde. Wilde by name. Wild by nature.
DSI Billie Wilde is on a mission to catch the killer responsible for a horrific showcase of murders, in order to prove that she’s still at the top of her game.
But when hidden skeletons come out of dark corners, she is forced to confront her past and face the truth - that she is the ultimate target, now firmly in the executioner’s sights.
As Billie grapples with her past, and learns she isn’t who she thought she was, she uncovers devastating childhood links to each of the victims.
The past refuses to stay buried and Billie soon finds herself wondering if she knows who’s behind the brutal murders.
But can Billie solve the case and unravel the mystery of her own past before it’s too late?
Meet DSI Wilde. Wilde by name. Wild by nature.
DSI Billie Wilde is on a mission to catch the killer responsible for a horrific showcase of murders, in order to prove that she’s still at the top of her game.
But when hidden skeletons come out of dark corners, she is forced to confront her past and face the truth - that she is the ultimate target, now firmly in the executioner’s sights.
As Billie grapples with her past, and learns she isn’t who she thought she was, she uncovers devastating childhood links to each of the victims.
The past refuses to stay buried and Billie soon finds herself wondering if she knows who’s behind the brutal murders.
But can Billie solve the case and unravel the mystery of her own past before it’s too late?
274 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 17, 2021
63 people are currently reading
188 people want to read
About the author
Marrisse Whittaker
8 books27 followersMarrisse Whittaker has been creating characters for all of her working life, first as a TV and Film Make-Up Artist, where she might have been called upon to construct a corpse, age an actor by a hundred years, or make a real-life drug-raddled rock star look desirable.
Next as a TV Scriptwriter, creating stories for popular series such as CBBC’S Byker Grove, BBC’s Doctors and Channel 4 Hollyoaks.
But plenty of drama takes place in real-life too and when Marrisse joined forces with her husband, former TV Journalist Bob Whittaker, to establish Orion TV, they produced a fascinating range of factual programmes for major broadcasters.
Now creating a scene has taken on a new meaning for Marrisse since 2020, when she launched a new career as a novelist, writing crime fiction.
Living by the sea in rural Northumberland, Marrisse likes to invent murder and mayhem whilst travelling far and wide or walking through the surf and turf landscape on her doorstep, whilst eating lots of chocolate.
Next as a TV Scriptwriter, creating stories for popular series such as CBBC’S Byker Grove, BBC’s Doctors and Channel 4 Hollyoaks.
But plenty of drama takes place in real-life too and when Marrisse joined forces with her husband, former TV Journalist Bob Whittaker, to establish Orion TV, they produced a fascinating range of factual programmes for major broadcasters.
Now creating a scene has taken on a new meaning for Marrisse since 2020, when she launched a new career as a novelist, writing crime fiction.
Living by the sea in rural Northumberland, Marrisse likes to invent murder and mayhem whilst travelling far and wide or walking through the surf and turf landscape on her doorstep, whilst eating lots of chocolate.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
May 6, 2021
Meet DSI Wilde, Billie Wilde and if ever a name was suited to someone this is it, she is pretty wild and unconventional and after returning to work after an investigation into her ‘tactics’ she is thrown straight away into a horrific child murder
The book then progresses as do the murders and Billie is determined to solve them, even when she seems to have links with all the victims
Secrets a plenty and nasties uncovered play a part in this ‘casual chatty style’ tale and the book, for me, improved greatly after the first few chapters when I got to know Billie and knew what was happening and met the other characters
Was nice to read about North Eastern England as well
A good debut from this author with plenty of scope to carry on Billie’s work and ‘adventures’ and to look further into her personal life
A great surprise ending that I hadn’t predicted at all
7/10
4 Stars
The book then progresses as do the murders and Billie is determined to solve them, even when she seems to have links with all the victims
Secrets a plenty and nasties uncovered play a part in this ‘casual chatty style’ tale and the book, for me, improved greatly after the first few chapters when I got to know Billie and knew what was happening and met the other characters
Was nice to read about North Eastern England as well
A good debut from this author with plenty of scope to carry on Billie’s work and ‘adventures’ and to look further into her personal life
A great surprise ending that I hadn’t predicted at all
7/10
4 Stars
May 17, 2021
DSI Billie Wilde is stopped in traffic while on her way to work one morning, when she's signaled over by someone screaming and pointing. What shes sees is the stuff of nightmares. And this will not be the only body displayed in this manner.
Billie has been seeing a therapist and she's either starting to remember some of her childhood or she's hallucinating. Finding out that she was adopted has her reeling. Before her parents were killed in a car accident, they had never told her.
As she investigates these killings, she discovers skeletons of her past, lies and secrets, ... and she seems to be the target of this particular serial killer. In order to catch a killer she's going to have to face her past ..and her future.
This is an action-packed thriller ... a real page turner. Characters are outstanding. For a debut novel, it has everything one could want in a really good book. The killer is unique ... Wilde's present and past lives are fraught with danger. Her backstory is surprising. The conclusion was unexpected .. and explosive. Highly recommend for anyone who really enjoys a rip-roaring crime thriller.
Many thanks to the author / Bloodhound Books for the digital copy of this tremendous crime fiction debut. I look forward to seeing more of DSI Billie wilde. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Billie has been seeing a therapist and she's either starting to remember some of her childhood or she's hallucinating. Finding out that she was adopted has her reeling. Before her parents were killed in a car accident, they had never told her.
As she investigates these killings, she discovers skeletons of her past, lies and secrets, ... and she seems to be the target of this particular serial killer. In order to catch a killer she's going to have to face her past ..and her future.
This is an action-packed thriller ... a real page turner. Characters are outstanding. For a debut novel, it has everything one could want in a really good book. The killer is unique ... Wilde's present and past lives are fraught with danger. Her backstory is surprising. The conclusion was unexpected .. and explosive. Highly recommend for anyone who really enjoys a rip-roaring crime thriller.
Many thanks to the author / Bloodhound Books for the digital copy of this tremendous crime fiction debut. I look forward to seeing more of DSI Billie wilde. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
May 7, 2021
This is a great read.
Billie is one of the first on the scene when a child’s body is hanging from the Angel of the North. It’s heartbreaking for everyone as a child had been killed but Billie is determined to find the killer.
It’s not long before another body is found and the team definitely have their hands full.
At the same time Billie is close to her wedding day and her prospective in laws are very demanding.
We learn a lot about Billie’s past and it’s soon clear that she’s been lied to by those closest to her.
This is a gripping crime thriller that I really enjoyed.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for the opportunity to read this book.
Billie is one of the first on the scene when a child’s body is hanging from the Angel of the North. It’s heartbreaking for everyone as a child had been killed but Billie is determined to find the killer.
It’s not long before another body is found and the team definitely have their hands full.
At the same time Billie is close to her wedding day and her prospective in laws are very demanding.
We learn a lot about Billie’s past and it’s soon clear that she’s been lied to by those closest to her.
This is a gripping crime thriller that I really enjoyed.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for the opportunity to read this book.
May 13, 2021
Set in the North east England Geordie land.
Billie Wilde on the murder investigation team is out on the town with her housemate Kate, when there's a major incidence at the Angel of the North Gateshead, with Kate just singing One for sorrow Magpie in the car this is one tragic scene.
D.S. Ash sanghera and Billie are now looking at a doll like figure hanging from the angel she's just a baby by the name of Gracie-May-McGill its a murder enquiry Billie's first after coming back to work sooner from bereavement leave of her dad a former chief constable, CCTV footage shows and Billie caught her breath watching.
David Silver her fiance doesn't know that Billie has been out that night and the wedding preparations are starting to bore her, work always has to come first, with her determination and her sassy feasty ways she loved her job.
This is one belter of a read fast pace and all the evil magpie myth go into the chapters that send shivers down your spine. giving you more.
Billie's private life is full of almighty twists and turns along the way the seven for a secret never to be told, her history needs to be laid to rest.
Dynamic, this book deserves double the ratings it will keep readers hooked till you reach THE END.
I really do look forward to reading much more from this character in up coming books
Billie Wilde on the murder investigation team is out on the town with her housemate Kate, when there's a major incidence at the Angel of the North Gateshead, with Kate just singing One for sorrow Magpie in the car this is one tragic scene.
D.S. Ash sanghera and Billie are now looking at a doll like figure hanging from the angel she's just a baby by the name of Gracie-May-McGill its a murder enquiry Billie's first after coming back to work sooner from bereavement leave of her dad a former chief constable, CCTV footage shows and Billie caught her breath watching.
David Silver her fiance doesn't know that Billie has been out that night and the wedding preparations are starting to bore her, work always has to come first, with her determination and her sassy feasty ways she loved her job.
This is one belter of a read fast pace and all the evil magpie myth go into the chapters that send shivers down your spine. giving you more.
Billie's private life is full of almighty twists and turns along the way the seven for a secret never to be told, her history needs to be laid to rest.
Dynamic, this book deserves double the ratings it will keep readers hooked till you reach THE END.
I really do look forward to reading much more from this character in up coming books
May 12, 2021
Well that was great. One of the best books I’ve read recently. Well written with a taut and thrilling story with plenty of twists and turns. The opening chapter, whilst distressing sets the scene for the rest of the book. And I was hooked.
Briefly, DSI Billie Wilde is at the scene of a horrific child murder with the victim put on display for the world to see. Billie has recently lost her parents in a car crash, and has been on a disciplinary charge as a result of her actions in her last case, and now she is being forced to see a psychiatrist, Max Strong. With her marriage also looming Billie is not in the best place. But this is just the first in a spate of horrible murders, all with the victims left ‘hanging’ by the killer. As the story progresses Billie begins to wonder if she is connected to the victims. Is her past is coming back to haunt her...
I would highly recommend this book. It is fast paced and gripping. I didn’t guess the killer, who isn’t revealed until near the end of the book, and I usually do! This is a fabulous first book from this author and I will eagerly look forward to her next book. A massive 5* from me.
Briefly, DSI Billie Wilde is at the scene of a horrific child murder with the victim put on display for the world to see. Billie has recently lost her parents in a car crash, and has been on a disciplinary charge as a result of her actions in her last case, and now she is being forced to see a psychiatrist, Max Strong. With her marriage also looming Billie is not in the best place. But this is just the first in a spate of horrible murders, all with the victims left ‘hanging’ by the killer. As the story progresses Billie begins to wonder if she is connected to the victims. Is her past is coming back to haunt her...
I would highly recommend this book. It is fast paced and gripping. I didn’t guess the killer, who isn’t revealed until near the end of the book, and I usually do! This is a fabulous first book from this author and I will eagerly look forward to her next book. A massive 5* from me.
May 12, 2021
The complexity of the characters written in this book are reflected as the story unfolds with its' tale of family, secrets, and truths revealed. This was a stunning debut novel that had me audibly gasping every once in a while and that had me close my kindle cover so that I would stop reading in order to draw out the story. I was in conflict about whether I wanted to hurry and finish it to find out what happens or if I wanted to stop reading for a bit so I could prolong the suspense. I will be keeping track of this author for future releases. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.
October 16, 2021
This book was fantastic - I did struggle in the beginning and thought that I had missed something as it seemed to jump right in, but I continued and it was brilliant.
Everything tied up in the end and the ending made sense.
I was given an advance copy by Bloodhound books but the review is entirely my own.
Everything tied up in the end and the ending made sense.
I was given an advance copy by Bloodhound books but the review is entirely my own.
May 17, 2021
DSI Billie Wilde is on her first day back after an enforced holiday. She made a very forceful arrest where the suspect was badly hurt and she was reported by a junior detective, and has also lost her parents recently. Her impending marriage to a man she has known all her life is also hanging over her like a cloud, driven along by her future mother in law with very little input from Billie herself. At least her godfather, the Chief Constable, has her back and has probably played a part in her being given promotion to Assistant Chief Constable. Except she doesn’t really want it – MIT is where her heart lies, even if it means working with DC Jo Green (The Grass) who constantly rubs her up the wrong way. Fortunately her wingman DS Ash Sanghera can always be relied on. As she drives into work that morning she witnesses a terrible crime scene – the appalling murder of a small child suspended from a famous landmark and Billie is determined to catch the killer. The victim is swiftly identified and the post mortem reveals she was drugged and smothered to death, although there are also stab wounds, including one very strange signature from the killer. A second body, this time an adult woman, is discovered soon after with the same strange marking. What could possibly link the two victims? As the case progresses, Billie starts to have disturbing flashbacks to childhood and makes a very startling discovery about her early life. Finally the detectives receive a lead to a good suspect but then the whole investigation turns on its head. With her life in complete turmoil, can Billie catch a killer whilst dealing with her troubling suspicions about her own family history, not knowing who she can even trust any more?
I found Billie to be a complex character. She is very young to be a Detective Superintendent and the way she is involved in the investigations seems like more in keeping of that of a DI, for example going out and interviewing witnesses and suspects. She also behaves a bit childishly at times and doesn’t seem to have the maturity that goes with her rank, let alone her promotion. She is clearly a strong woman at work and yet lets her personal life be dictated and mapped out by others, even to the point of marrying a man she seems fond of at best. I really liked some characters, like Josta, who brought some great gallows humour to the story. It’s a super story, so much more than a simple murder investigation with an exciting plot, loads of red herrings and false trails, and a fantastic ending which kept me gripped right to the very last page. I do hope there will be another story featuring Billie Wilde – she is far too good a character to only have one outing! 5*
I found Billie to be a complex character. She is very young to be a Detective Superintendent and the way she is involved in the investigations seems like more in keeping of that of a DI, for example going out and interviewing witnesses and suspects. She also behaves a bit childishly at times and doesn’t seem to have the maturity that goes with her rank, let alone her promotion. She is clearly a strong woman at work and yet lets her personal life be dictated and mapped out by others, even to the point of marrying a man she seems fond of at best. I really liked some characters, like Josta, who brought some great gallows humour to the story. It’s a super story, so much more than a simple murder investigation with an exciting plot, loads of red herrings and false trails, and a fantastic ending which kept me gripped right to the very last page. I do hope there will be another story featuring Billie Wilde – she is far too good a character to only have one outing! 5*
May 18, 2021
DSI Billie Wilde was driving into work on her first day back after suspension, with her housemate Kate, when a car crash happened just in front of them. Billie immediately got out to help fearing the worst for one of the passengers but luckily enough it was only a ventriloquist’s dummy that had lost its head! The male driver that had caused the crash was unhurt and pointed to the ghastly sight hanging from the Angel from the North. Now other police were on the scene, Billie and Kate tore off to investigate.
When they reached the scene, they weren’t prepared for the sight that met them. There was a body of a baby hanging from the statue. Kate managed to climb up to release the baby and she tumbled to the ground. Billie ran over to check her although she knew she was already dead.
Later that morning, they got a possible id for the child, Gracie-May McGill. One of the neighbours saw the footage earlier and got in touch, the kid was round hers yesterday afternoon. The dad wanted her to babysit last night but she said no. She was living with foster parents, currently the mum was on holiday abroad in Benidorm and the dad wasn’t home. He had wanted to watch the footie at the local pub last night. There was a lock-in after the Toons won the match, it was an all-nighter.
They were in luck, there was a grainy CCTV shot that showed a tiny figure holding a soft toy in one hand being led by a tall figure wearing a NUC football hoodie. They had rounded up the lock-in crowd including Gracie-May’s dad and apparently he used to be a former climber. Ash said the father didn’t match the person on the CCTV picture. Too large.
Who would want to kill a child? A kidnap gone wrong? Or are there some dark forces at work?
This debut just blew me away! I loved reading this suspenseful book which introduces us to DSI Billie Wilde. There is a lot going on with her as well as what happens in the book but I like her and I hope there is going to be a second book. The writing style is easy to read and descriptive plus imaginative. It’s a very intriguing plot.
When they reached the scene, they weren’t prepared for the sight that met them. There was a body of a baby hanging from the statue. Kate managed to climb up to release the baby and she tumbled to the ground. Billie ran over to check her although she knew she was already dead.
Later that morning, they got a possible id for the child, Gracie-May McGill. One of the neighbours saw the footage earlier and got in touch, the kid was round hers yesterday afternoon. The dad wanted her to babysit last night but she said no. She was living with foster parents, currently the mum was on holiday abroad in Benidorm and the dad wasn’t home. He had wanted to watch the footie at the local pub last night. There was a lock-in after the Toons won the match, it was an all-nighter.
They were in luck, there was a grainy CCTV shot that showed a tiny figure holding a soft toy in one hand being led by a tall figure wearing a NUC football hoodie. They had rounded up the lock-in crowd including Gracie-May’s dad and apparently he used to be a former climber. Ash said the father didn’t match the person on the CCTV picture. Too large.
Who would want to kill a child? A kidnap gone wrong? Or are there some dark forces at work?
This debut just blew me away! I loved reading this suspenseful book which introduces us to DSI Billie Wilde. There is a lot going on with her as well as what happens in the book but I like her and I hope there is going to be a second book. The writing style is easy to read and descriptive plus imaginative. It’s a very intriguing plot.
June 29, 2021
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. It was 99p on Kindle (pre order) and written by a local writer. The premise sounded good & if nothing else I’d be helping out a local lass with her debut novel’s “numbers”.
The start was strong and I liked the imagery of Tyneside and the surrounding areas. It is one of those cities of contradiction: new money, derelict post industrial shipyards, shiny landmark buildings, poverty, metropolitan intellectuals, poverty. That was shown very well. It was almost cinematic and I could well see an adaptation for the big or small screen in the future.
It is very well crafted, the way that it was structured and woven together. Also I liked the added psychological element of PTSD and emotional trauma. That was handled very well.
What let this book down was that there was just too much going on that it became almost a parody of itself. It became completely unbelievable. I suspect that this was a case of first time author trying to squeeze everything into the “big first novel” which didn’t sit well against the socio realistic backdrop.
Dr Max Strong might say that that our author is unconsciously fearing that she will never get another chance and this will be her only novel so she overcooked the broth incase it is her only chance.
DSI Wilde might say “stop talking such psudo-psychological nonsense!”
Despite this, it was a quality debut & the last chapter left the door open for a follow up. I am looking forward to seeing what Marrisse writes next.
The start was strong and I liked the imagery of Tyneside and the surrounding areas. It is one of those cities of contradiction: new money, derelict post industrial shipyards, shiny landmark buildings, poverty, metropolitan intellectuals, poverty. That was shown very well. It was almost cinematic and I could well see an adaptation for the big or small screen in the future.
It is very well crafted, the way that it was structured and woven together. Also I liked the added psychological element of PTSD and emotional trauma. That was handled very well.
What let this book down was that there was just too much going on that it became almost a parody of itself. It became completely unbelievable. I suspect that this was a case of first time author trying to squeeze everything into the “big first novel” which didn’t sit well against the socio realistic backdrop.
Dr Max Strong might say that that our author is unconsciously fearing that she will never get another chance and this will be her only novel so she overcooked the broth incase it is her only chance.
DSI Wilde might say “stop talking such psudo-psychological nonsense!”
Despite this, it was a quality debut & the last chapter left the door open for a follow up. I am looking forward to seeing what Marrisse writes next.
May 15, 2021
It’s a startling first day back to work after a forced leave, when DSI Billie Wilde finds a small child’s body hanging from the famed Angel of the North statue. As the investigation continues, so do the gruesome murders, and Billie begins having flashbacks, which seem to connect her to the victims. All this is happening as she is forced to navigate office politics and a complicated personal life.
There’s a bunch of threads happening in this one, but the author does a really old job of keeping things well organized and streamlined so that it’s easy to follow the story as it progresses. And things happen fast in this one. It’s a whirlwind from start to finish! It had some tough parts to read as it dealt with crimes against children, but it was nice to see Billie and her team fight for justice for them, and Billie clearly cared very much about bringing the criminals responsible for hurting them to task, so that was very vindicating.
Billie is a great character who is just trying to figure things out as they get thrown fast and furious at her - she’s in a situation where it quickly becomes apparent that she can’t really trust anyone and she needs to keep her wits about her. She’s a tough gal and I really liked her. I hope we get to see more of her in the future.
This was a wild ride from start to finish, and fans of fast-paced thrillers will really enjoy this police procedural. Hopefully we’ll be seeing more of this team in books to come!
There’s a bunch of threads happening in this one, but the author does a really old job of keeping things well organized and streamlined so that it’s easy to follow the story as it progresses. And things happen fast in this one. It’s a whirlwind from start to finish! It had some tough parts to read as it dealt with crimes against children, but it was nice to see Billie and her team fight for justice for them, and Billie clearly cared very much about bringing the criminals responsible for hurting them to task, so that was very vindicating.
Billie is a great character who is just trying to figure things out as they get thrown fast and furious at her - she’s in a situation where it quickly becomes apparent that she can’t really trust anyone and she needs to keep her wits about her. She’s a tough gal and I really liked her. I hope we get to see more of her in the future.
This was a wild ride from start to finish, and fans of fast-paced thrillers will really enjoy this police procedural. Hopefully we’ll be seeing more of this team in books to come!
August 16, 2023
The Magpie by Marrisse Whittaker is a 2021 Bloodhound Books publication.
I picked this book up in the Kindle Unlimited library at random. It had high ratings and I love British mysteries and procedurals- so I took a chance on it, and a it turns out my gamble paid off….
DCI Billie Wilde is back at work after a dust up landed her on suspension. Her first case involves the death of a child in a particularly gruesome manner. As Wilde begins her investigation, it puts a damper on her wedding planning, which causes issues in her relationship with her fiancé and her future mother-in-law…
But her job is her top priority. But as her probe deepens, she learns some troubling information about her own life, and who she thought she was. Could everything she thought she knew all be a lie? And how does this all connect to her murder investigation?
This is a solid start to this series. The atmosphere is taut, and the mystery unfolds with one stunning revelation after another, making this a fast-paced page turner. The story has grit, is dark, but not overly graphic. The characters were well drawn, and the author did a great job of keeping me on my toes.
4 stars
I picked this book up in the Kindle Unlimited library at random. It had high ratings and I love British mysteries and procedurals- so I took a chance on it, and a it turns out my gamble paid off….
DCI Billie Wilde is back at work after a dust up landed her on suspension. Her first case involves the death of a child in a particularly gruesome manner. As Wilde begins her investigation, it puts a damper on her wedding planning, which causes issues in her relationship with her fiancé and her future mother-in-law…
But her job is her top priority. But as her probe deepens, she learns some troubling information about her own life, and who she thought she was. Could everything she thought she knew all be a lie? And how does this all connect to her murder investigation?
This is a solid start to this series. The atmosphere is taut, and the mystery unfolds with one stunning revelation after another, making this a fast-paced page turner. The story has grit, is dark, but not overly graphic. The characters were well drawn, and the author did a great job of keeping me on my toes.
4 stars
July 22, 2022
A below average first in a series set in Newcastle. The writing is fairly amateur and it is also the poorest quality editing I've ever heard in an audio book. All the reader's mistakes are left in and then the correct passage just repeated afterwards. Extremely shoddy and irritating. I could not become engaged with Billie Wilde. The crimes and her personal involvement with them were unbelievable and many of the actions of the police through out the book were unrealistic and poorly portrayed. The whole premise of the plot was ridiculously outlandish and wouldn't bare up to much scrutiny.
Several murders take place, the first being a small child who is hoisted up onto The Angel Of The North, without anyone noticing this of course. All the bodies bare the same mark, the letter M. It's Billie's job to find out what the connection is and stop any more murders from taking place. I'm afraid a big thumbs down from me.
Several murders take place, the first being a small child who is hoisted up onto The Angel Of The North, without anyone noticing this of course. All the bodies bare the same mark, the letter M. It's Billie's job to find out what the connection is and stop any more murders from taking place. I'm afraid a big thumbs down from me.
September 16, 2022
This book was okay
I started out liking the story in this book but I really didn't care what happened to David or Ash as the author didn't really say much about them. I wasn't sure who was doing the murdering so I was a little surprised but then again there weren't too many characters left to choose from as most of them were murdered. So the book was okay. I think it could've been longer with more details so we as the reader would understand all the different relationships and actually feel like we knew these characters and cared about. I did like Grass as the Author put a little more time into this particular character. I could actually visualize the scene at the end with Grass holding the fake gun. I thought that was funny. So I'm used to reading grittier mysteries, police procedural and thrillers. So yes overall this was a good story and I read it to the end. I do see a continuation to this book and I'll probably read that too.
I started out liking the story in this book but I really didn't care what happened to David or Ash as the author didn't really say much about them. I wasn't sure who was doing the murdering so I was a little surprised but then again there weren't too many characters left to choose from as most of them were murdered. So the book was okay. I think it could've been longer with more details so we as the reader would understand all the different relationships and actually feel like we knew these characters and cared about. I did like Grass as the Author put a little more time into this particular character. I could actually visualize the scene at the end with Grass holding the fake gun. I thought that was funny. So I'm used to reading grittier mysteries, police procedural and thrillers. So yes overall this was a good story and I read it to the end. I do see a continuation to this book and I'll probably read that too.
May 6, 2023
I decided to start with her debut novel of the Billie Wilde series, it came out 2 years ago. Now Marrisse Whittaker is coming out with book 5.
Past and present collide in Wilde's investigation into a couple horrible murders she is drawn into. A lot of what she discovers leads back to her own childhood and memories suppressed by long ago events. There are plenty of plot twists to keep you guessing until the end. I thought I had it figured out a couple of times but the characters ended up kaput (so to speak).
If you like crime thrillers you'll enjoy getting to know Billie Wilde. Far from perfect but with a kind heart. Now I find I want to read more, next 2 books in the series just added to my collection. Look forward to reading them.
Past and present collide in Wilde's investigation into a couple horrible murders she is drawn into. A lot of what she discovers leads back to her own childhood and memories suppressed by long ago events. There are plenty of plot twists to keep you guessing until the end. I thought I had it figured out a couple of times but the characters ended up kaput (so to speak).
If you like crime thrillers you'll enjoy getting to know Billie Wilde. Far from perfect but with a kind heart. Now I find I want to read more, next 2 books in the series just added to my collection. Look forward to reading them.
May 6, 2021
This is a quite outstanding book . It's full of action and flows really well. We meet DSI Billie Wilde who is fiesty, determined and goes in where it hurts to get results. On her way into work on her first day back after suspension she comes across a gruesome murder. It turns out to be the first in a series of them! Running concurrently with the murder investigations Billie Wilde finds out that her childhood is not what she thought and it's rapidly coming back to bite her. She doesn't know who to trust or turn to.
The author has written this book very cleverly and there are many twists and turns as it unfolds. Also the way it is written it could lead to a prequel and a sequel. What I shall say is that the first murder is that of a young child and there is reference to historical child abuse which may not suit everyone. The reference does not however detract from the storyline but does enhance the suspense and mystery.
On reading this book I thought it was from a seasoned crime writer such was the quality of it so I was most surprised when reading the acknowledgements at the end to discover that is was her first novel. Marrisse Whittaker knows how to keep the reader gripped from start to end.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for the ARC which I've reviewed voluntarily.
The author has written this book very cleverly and there are many twists and turns as it unfolds. Also the way it is written it could lead to a prequel and a sequel. What I shall say is that the first murder is that of a young child and there is reference to historical child abuse which may not suit everyone. The reference does not however detract from the storyline but does enhance the suspense and mystery.
On reading this book I thought it was from a seasoned crime writer such was the quality of it so I was most surprised when reading the acknowledgements at the end to discover that is was her first novel. Marrisse Whittaker knows how to keep the reader gripped from start to end.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for the ARC which I've reviewed voluntarily.
May 23, 2021
A powerful, fast paced, gritty, shocking and wonderfully addictive read. A nail biting adventure from the start to end. It had me on tenderhooks throughout with all it's twists, turns and revelations. DSI Billie Wilde has more than her fair share of skeletons in the cupboard. With the start of her new investigation into the brutal murder of a small child the ghosts of her dark and forgotten past unearth themselves.... one by agonizingly painful one. The death count increases and the storyline darkens. The truth is in there somewhere, but is this feisty strong headed young detective prepared? A must read!
January 18, 2022
Nice to read a novel based locally as it gives the reader a lot more context. Unfortunately though I just could not get into the main character and how massive life changing events and experiences throughout the novel were just shrugged off. Some good scenes but nothing like some of the more respected police procedurals (if indeed that’s what it was meant to be). Saying that though I kept going to the end and it turned out to be quite an enjoyable story with some decent plot twists and several harrowing and totally unexpected scenes. I think I will still read the next in the series.
August 10, 2022
DSI Billie Wilde returns to work after enforced leave and straight into a horrendous case involving a child murder.
With more murders occurring, the team need to try and find what is linking them.
This is an intriguing debut that involves many secrets and lies.
I had a lot of compassion for DSI Billie Wilde and I won’t say what I thought of her future mother in law!! Complex characters that you end up loving or loathing.
Lovely descriptive writing about the beautiful North East. I did not see the ending coming, which is always a bonus! I cannot wait to read the second book in the series, The Devil’s Line.
With more murders occurring, the team need to try and find what is linking them.
This is an intriguing debut that involves many secrets and lies.
I had a lot of compassion for DSI Billie Wilde and I won’t say what I thought of her future mother in law!! Complex characters that you end up loving or loathing.
Lovely descriptive writing about the beautiful North East. I did not see the ending coming, which is always a bonus! I cannot wait to read the second book in the series, The Devil’s Line.
May 16, 2021
One for Sorrow,
Two for Joy,
Three for a Girl,
Four for a Boy,
Five for Silver,
Six for gold,
Seven for a Secret Never To Be Told?
I won’t spill any secrets in this review but I will tell you that this book is a great read! The characters and storyline flow beautifully. A book written so well that I didn’t want to stop. With each chapter there seemed to be a new twist all the way up until the end. Definitely add this to your TBR list!
Two for Joy,
Three for a Girl,
Four for a Boy,
Five for Silver,
Six for gold,
Seven for a Secret Never To Be Told?
I won’t spill any secrets in this review but I will tell you that this book is a great read! The characters and storyline flow beautifully. A book written so well that I didn’t want to stop. With each chapter there seemed to be a new twist all the way up until the end. Definitely add this to your TBR list!
May 16, 2021
This book was amazing!
It had just the right blend of suspence and insight into the main character's personal life as she investigated the murders.
The ending seems to have left room for another book.
I would love that and hope this becomes a series.
Thank you Bloodhound Books for the opportunity to read this very gripping book.
It had just the right blend of suspence and insight into the main character's personal life as she investigated the murders.
The ending seems to have left room for another book.
I would love that and hope this becomes a series.
Thank you Bloodhound Books for the opportunity to read this very gripping book.
May 16, 2021
This book started pretty strong, took a dip and then about halfway through picked up speed again. It kept me guessing as everytime I thought I knew the killer, the script was flipped. I did not like the author continuously using full names when people were talking/talked about, just a little annoyance for me. Not a bad book at all but there was a lot going on.
August 20, 2021
Gripping from start to finish.
Gripping thriller,lots of twists and turns to keep the reader interested.Gory murders lies and deceit nice to hear of some familiar local setting,felt like you knew the main character Billie and felt for her.There could possibly be a follow up I'm hoping. Very well written will look out for more from this author.
Gripping thriller,lots of twists and turns to keep the reader interested.Gory murders lies and deceit nice to hear of some familiar local setting,felt like you knew the main character Billie and felt for her.There could possibly be a follow up I'm hoping. Very well written will look out for more from this author.
May 24, 2022
What a great read! This author was new to me, but I'll definitely be reading the rest of the series. In this, Book 1, we are introduced to DSI Billie Wilde, a flawed character whose past is slowly revealed. The plot is fast paced with twists and murders aplenty, and kept me guessing right to the end. Highly recommend.
June 21, 2022
A fantastic read
This was a great read from beginning to end with so much going on to keep you reading. I love that it's set in the North-East and a certain program from growing up is thrown in there along with it been the scene for the finale of the book. I highly recommend this book and I'll definitely be reading the next book in the series. Keep up the great writing.
This was a great read from beginning to end with so much going on to keep you reading. I love that it's set in the North-East and a certain program from growing up is thrown in there along with it been the scene for the finale of the book. I highly recommend this book and I'll definitely be reading the next book in the series. Keep up the great writing.
March 22, 2023
4.5⭐️ This starts off at a million miles per hour and that pace doesn’t drop for the entire book. Gritty and compelling with an ending I didn’t see coming. Loved Billie from the start and towards the end of the book you start to get a feel for the other excellent characters. Fantastic start to a series that I will definitely be continuing with
December 21, 2025
Great read. DSI Billie is a force to be reckoned with in this book. She’s great. She’s after a murderer but comes across her own skeletons and yes obviously they trip her up. But she’s up & dealing with them her way.
I can’t wait to start the next one now and see what she’s up to.
This is going to be a great series that I’m catching up on.
I can’t wait to start the next one now and see what she’s up to.
This is going to be a great series that I’m catching up on.
May 20, 2021
This story is a dark thriller , this is good exciting book for the beginning to the end. This will keep you on your toes as you read this novel . It is a must reading. The female Detective Billie Wilde she came across a crime, and she about to solve the mystery.
June 23, 2021
Wow
This was recommended on Facebook and reading the reviews ,I thought I would give it a go. I am so glad I did .It is an excellent story that intrigued throughout . I will be watching out for another Marrisse books
This was recommended on Facebook and reading the reviews ,I thought I would give it a go. I am so glad I did .It is an excellent story that intrigued throughout . I will be watching out for another Marrisse books
July 8, 2021
Great first book
I really enjoyed this book, although the subject matter might be difficult for some but I really wanted to know how it ended and pulled me out of a bit of a reading glut. I look forward to reading her next book.
I really enjoyed this book, although the subject matter might be difficult for some but I really wanted to know how it ended and pulled me out of a bit of a reading glut. I look forward to reading her next book.
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