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DCI Rachel King #5
Last Victim
A two-month-old baby is missing. James’s parents left him with a babysitter while they went out for dinner. But when they get home, there’s no sign of baby or sitter.
This is the last thing DCI Rachel King wants to hear on her last night of maternity leave. But worse is to come. The missing infant belongs to Scott Agnew, alleged member of Manchester drug-dealing ring, the Trio.
Then the elderly mother of another Trio boss disappears. Rachel knows that if these are retaliation kidnappings, things will only go from bad to terrible.
And guess who everyone thinks is behind this? The prime suspect is Rachel’s partner Jed, ex-gangland boss and father of her youngest child.
This is the last thing DCI Rachel King wants to hear on her last night of maternity leave. But worse is to come. The missing infant belongs to Scott Agnew, alleged member of Manchester drug-dealing ring, the Trio.
Then the elderly mother of another Trio boss disappears. Rachel knows that if these are retaliation kidnappings, things will only go from bad to terrible.
And guess who everyone thinks is behind this? The prime suspect is Rachel’s partner Jed, ex-gangland boss and father of her youngest child.
221 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 2, 2021
503 people are currently reading
180 people want to read
About the author
Helen H. Durrant
46 books624 followersI'm a woman of a certain age with a vocabulary addiction and no plans to recover.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
December 15, 2021
Last Victim by Helen H. Durrant is the fifth instalment in the DCI Rachel King series but reads relatively well as a stand-alone. Rachel has been on maternity leave when she is called back the day before her expected return to work. A baby has been kidnapped. A few days later, an elderly resident of a senior home is also kidnapped. The two victims are related to two of the men in Trio, an organized crime group responsible for distributing drugs in Manchester. Rachel and her staff must solve these crimes and a few other secondary crimes. I found that there were too many characters, leading to subsidiary storylines which were more confusing than useful. The writing is that of a professional writer but it was difficult for the poor DCI to keep her eye on the ball. This led to the resolution of the crimes being confusing and rushed. I understand that a mystery in a series should leave the reader wanting more. But there was too much left up in the air and this prevented Last Victim from being a satisfying read. Please note that this review is my opinion only. Thank you to Joffe Books, NetGalley and the author for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2021
This is, I think, book 5 in the DI Rachel King series, I suspect it may be the last but I’m sure the author will have something new in store for us soon! The book started with a bang with the brazen abduction of a young child, James Agnew, from his home by the fake babysitter. The parents are understandably distraught. But soon after the same fake babysitter turns up at a nursing home as a fake carer and makes off with elderly Edith Hutton!
Ah now the picture begins to emerge. Scott Agnew, the boys father and Edith’s son (somebody Hutton) are both part of the Trio - the gang running criminal activities in the Manchester area! And sure enough the final Trio family, the Blackmores, are targeted when Brendan is kidnapped. His wife Grace is beside herself but Rachel and her team need to be very careful. Despite Brendan being the titular Trio member, Grace is a formidable and venomous woman who holds grudges and believes in revenge.
Grace believes that Rachel’s boyfriend is behind it all in a bid to take over the operation but he had promised Rachel that he was going straight and has not put a foot wrong since. They have a young son and are a loving family. Rachel needs to watch her step with Grace and she knows Rachel has a young son.
I had an idea who was behind it all but I was wrong. The child was soon returned unharmed but a young homeless man is killed as the search is on for the young fake babysitter/care home worker. She is scared for her life. She didn’t want anything bad to happen to the abductees but wanted to make the Trio pay for her sister’s death. She holds them responsible.
The pacing was cracking and Rachel’s desperate bid to keep her family together was moving. These were very high stakes and the clock was ticking down for the remaining abductees. There were rumours that a police officer was involved and the atmosphere got very tense.
I really enjoyed this story. Helen Durrant thrillers are always eminently readable and I have no qualms in recommending any of her books. Thanks to Netgalley and Joffe Books for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
Ah now the picture begins to emerge. Scott Agnew, the boys father and Edith’s son (somebody Hutton) are both part of the Trio - the gang running criminal activities in the Manchester area! And sure enough the final Trio family, the Blackmores, are targeted when Brendan is kidnapped. His wife Grace is beside herself but Rachel and her team need to be very careful. Despite Brendan being the titular Trio member, Grace is a formidable and venomous woman who holds grudges and believes in revenge.
Grace believes that Rachel’s boyfriend is behind it all in a bid to take over the operation but he had promised Rachel that he was going straight and has not put a foot wrong since. They have a young son and are a loving family. Rachel needs to watch her step with Grace and she knows Rachel has a young son.
I had an idea who was behind it all but I was wrong. The child was soon returned unharmed but a young homeless man is killed as the search is on for the young fake babysitter/care home worker. She is scared for her life. She didn’t want anything bad to happen to the abductees but wanted to make the Trio pay for her sister’s death. She holds them responsible.
The pacing was cracking and Rachel’s desperate bid to keep her family together was moving. These were very high stakes and the clock was ticking down for the remaining abductees. There were rumours that a police officer was involved and the atmosphere got very tense.
I really enjoyed this story. Helen Durrant thrillers are always eminently readable and I have no qualms in recommending any of her books. Thanks to Netgalley and Joffe Books for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
November 27, 2021
DCI Rachel King #5
A two month old baby is missing. Jamie's parents left him with a babysitter while they went out for dinner. But when they get home, there's no sign of the baby or sitter. This is the last thing Rachel wants to hear on the last night of her maternity leave. But worse is to come. The missing infant belongs to Scott Agnew, alleged member of Manchester drug-dealing ring, the Trio. Then the elderly mother of another Trio boss disappears. Rachael knows that if these are relation kidnappings, things will go from bad to terrible.
Gangland criminals won't stand back from taking their revenge, even if the events took place in the past. Who is behind the missing baby and elderly woman? Rachel is suspicious of her partner who has supposed to have given up on his criminal side of life.
The plotline was well executed. The pace was steady with some twists. An easy book to read but I felt the ending let it down.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #JoffeBooks and the author #HelenHDurrant for my ARC of #LastVictim in exchange for an honest review.
A two month old baby is missing. Jamie's parents left him with a babysitter while they went out for dinner. But when they get home, there's no sign of the baby or sitter. This is the last thing Rachel wants to hear on the last night of her maternity leave. But worse is to come. The missing infant belongs to Scott Agnew, alleged member of Manchester drug-dealing ring, the Trio. Then the elderly mother of another Trio boss disappears. Rachael knows that if these are relation kidnappings, things will go from bad to terrible.
Gangland criminals won't stand back from taking their revenge, even if the events took place in the past. Who is behind the missing baby and elderly woman? Rachel is suspicious of her partner who has supposed to have given up on his criminal side of life.
The plotline was well executed. The pace was steady with some twists. An easy book to read but I felt the ending let it down.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #JoffeBooks and the author #HelenHDurrant for my ARC of #LastVictim in exchange for an honest review.
September 2, 2022
*A Tangled Web of Lies*
This instalment had me gripped from the first page. I just could not wait to find out the conclusion. I don’t want to give much away but let’s say DCI Rachel King made a decision in the previous book that will have repercussions that are virtually almost beyond her. She is now living with her ex villainous boyfriend in the guise of a reformed character what could possibly go wrong???
There is a turf war takeover, murders, kidnappings all to prove a point and more than one high ranking police officer on the take one serving the other retired
How will they ever unpick this tangled web…
This is book 5 of 5 so far, not sure I could take anymore…… very addictive… I actually wonder if Rachel is the last victim of his actions… how will she move forward….
This instalment had me gripped from the first page. I just could not wait to find out the conclusion. I don’t want to give much away but let’s say DCI Rachel King made a decision in the previous book that will have repercussions that are virtually almost beyond her. She is now living with her ex villainous boyfriend in the guise of a reformed character what could possibly go wrong???
There is a turf war takeover, murders, kidnappings all to prove a point and more than one high ranking police officer on the take one serving the other retired
How will they ever unpick this tangled web…
This is book 5 of 5 so far, not sure I could take anymore…… very addictive… I actually wonder if Rachel is the last victim of his actions… how will she move forward….
November 20, 2021
This is the 5th book in the DCI Rachel King series by author Helen H Durrant. I have enjoyed this series from the start but if I am completely honest I didn’t feel the same about this one as the previous four. I like the characters and the writing but not quite there for me on this one.
DCI Rachel King is called into action when a two-month-old baby James is reported missing. His parents left him with a babysitter while they went out for dinner, but when they returned home their house was deserted. DCI Rachel King is due to return to work following her maternity leave and her start is only going to get worse when she discovers the missing child belongs to Scott Agnew, alleged member of Manchester drug-dealing ring, the Trio. Shortly after the elderly mother of another Trio member disappears and Rachel suspects there will be further crimes. Rachel realises this is not going to be an easy return to work and it is about to get worse when the prime suspect is Rachel’s partner Jed, ex-gangland boss and father of her youngest child.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Joffe Books for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
DCI Rachel King is called into action when a two-month-old baby James is reported missing. His parents left him with a babysitter while they went out for dinner, but when they returned home their house was deserted. DCI Rachel King is due to return to work following her maternity leave and her start is only going to get worse when she discovers the missing child belongs to Scott Agnew, alleged member of Manchester drug-dealing ring, the Trio. Shortly after the elderly mother of another Trio member disappears and Rachel suspects there will be further crimes. Rachel realises this is not going to be an easy return to work and it is about to get worse when the prime suspect is Rachel’s partner Jed, ex-gangland boss and father of her youngest child.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Joffe Books for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
December 2, 2021
DCI Rachel King and her team are called to investigate when an infant is kidnapped by the babysitter. The missing baby belongs to Scott Agnew, a part of a major drug ring ... The Trio.
Shortly after, the elderly mother of another Trip boss also disappears. There are no ransom notes, nothing to indicate exactly why they were both taken.
If these are retaliation kidnappings, or if it's someone who wants the Trio dissolved for his/hr own nefarious reasons, only one person is the prime suspect. Someone very close to Rachel ... her partner and the father of her youngest child.
Rachel is prepared to do whatever it takes to prove his innocence ... if he is innocent.
This is a great addition to the series. The suspense starts on the very first page and only elevates until the most surprising conclusion. Suspects are varied with multiple motives. although a motive is not an element of a crime, evidence of motive can be introduced to hep establish intent. Without a clear motive, Rachel finds it hard to separate the wheat from the chaff and figure out who's lying and who's hiding their secrets. The characters have been solidly defined and I like the blend of the professional along with the personal. Although 5th in the series, this can be read as a stand alone, but I highly recommend reading books in order.
Many thanks to the author / Joffe Books / Books n All Promotions /Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Shortly after, the elderly mother of another Trip boss also disappears. There are no ransom notes, nothing to indicate exactly why they were both taken.
If these are retaliation kidnappings, or if it's someone who wants the Trio dissolved for his/hr own nefarious reasons, only one person is the prime suspect. Someone very close to Rachel ... her partner and the father of her youngest child.
Rachel is prepared to do whatever it takes to prove his innocence ... if he is innocent.
This is a great addition to the series. The suspense starts on the very first page and only elevates until the most surprising conclusion. Suspects are varied with multiple motives. although a motive is not an element of a crime, evidence of motive can be introduced to hep establish intent. Without a clear motive, Rachel finds it hard to separate the wheat from the chaff and figure out who's lying and who's hiding their secrets. The characters have been solidly defined and I like the blend of the professional along with the personal. Although 5th in the series, this can be read as a stand alone, but I highly recommend reading books in order.
Many thanks to the author / Joffe Books / Books n All Promotions /Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
December 1, 2021
3.5 stars
Last Victim by Helen H. Durrant is the fifth in the Detective Rachel King series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe Books, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books)
DCI Rachel King is with the serious crime squad for east Manchester. Her team consists of: DS Elwyn Pryce, her long-time colleague and friend; DC Jonny Farrell, whose father is disappointed in his career choice; and DC Amy Metcalfe, who is a bit unreliable. Her boss is Mark Kenton. Rachel has two daughters from her ex-husband, and a new baby from Jed McAteer, a man with a criminal past, but the love of her life.
My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions)
Just back from maternity leave, Rachel's first case is the kidnapping of a two-month old baby. The parents went out for dinner and left him with the baby-sitting agency that they always use, but when they got home, both were missing. The father of the baby is Scott Agnew, an "alleged" crime boss of a ring called the Trio. Then the elderly mother of a second Trio mob boss disappears.
Word on the street is that someone new wants to take over the territory and that the Trio will be wiped out. Unfortunately, the prime suspect is none other than Jed, Rachel's partner.
Speaking of Jed and Rachel....living together is not quite as perfect as Rachel had hoped. Although they were going to share responsibilities, things are not going as planned.
Between the stress of being a working mother to a newborn, having a "reformed" criminal for a partner, and a job that is anything but stress-free, Rachel is struggling.
My Opinions:
As always, this was a fast-paced and easy read.
The suspects were plentiful, and some of the characters highly entertaining. The plot twisted repeatedly, and the possible identity of the perpetrator changed just as fast.
In past reviews, I have never held back my dislike of the relationship between Rachel and Jed, and this certainly hasn't changed. However, I don't think we've learned all about the current situation, and I am fairly certain there is a lot more to come.
So overall, other than the Rachel & Jed issue, this book had a really good plot.
I love that appendix of British slang that the author adds to the end of every book, but I will reiterate....I wish the words were used in the foot-note format.
For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and her contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
Last Victim by Helen H. Durrant is the fifth in the Detective Rachel King series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe Books, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books)
DCI Rachel King is with the serious crime squad for east Manchester. Her team consists of: DS Elwyn Pryce, her long-time colleague and friend; DC Jonny Farrell, whose father is disappointed in his career choice; and DC Amy Metcalfe, who is a bit unreliable. Her boss is Mark Kenton. Rachel has two daughters from her ex-husband, and a new baby from Jed McAteer, a man with a criminal past, but the love of her life.
My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions)
Just back from maternity leave, Rachel's first case is the kidnapping of a two-month old baby. The parents went out for dinner and left him with the baby-sitting agency that they always use, but when they got home, both were missing. The father of the baby is Scott Agnew, an "alleged" crime boss of a ring called the Trio. Then the elderly mother of a second Trio mob boss disappears.
Word on the street is that someone new wants to take over the territory and that the Trio will be wiped out. Unfortunately, the prime suspect is none other than Jed, Rachel's partner.
Speaking of Jed and Rachel....living together is not quite as perfect as Rachel had hoped. Although they were going to share responsibilities, things are not going as planned.
Between the stress of being a working mother to a newborn, having a "reformed" criminal for a partner, and a job that is anything but stress-free, Rachel is struggling.
My Opinions:
As always, this was a fast-paced and easy read.
The suspects were plentiful, and some of the characters highly entertaining. The plot twisted repeatedly, and the possible identity of the perpetrator changed just as fast.
In past reviews, I have never held back my dislike of the relationship between Rachel and Jed, and this certainly hasn't changed. However, I don't think we've learned all about the current situation, and I am fairly certain there is a lot more to come.
So overall, other than the Rachel & Jed issue, this book had a really good plot.
I love that appendix of British slang that the author adds to the end of every book, but I will reiterate....I wish the words were used in the foot-note format.
For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and her contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
December 3, 2021
Last Victim is the fifth instalment in the DCI Rachel King series, set in and around the city of Manchester. In a fantastic prologue, the story really starts with a bang that had me hooked even before I had swiped my e-reader to take me to the second page.
Helen H. Durrant has drawn a very deep and complex character in DCI Rachel King. She is back from maternity leave and has secrets that she'd prefer to keep buried. As with the other books I've read by this author, several in this series, two from her 'Calladine & Bayliss' series, and two from the 'DI Harry Lennox/DS Jess Wilde' series, the intricate plot is well written. There are suspects to watch, and twists and turns that resemble a long roller coaster ride. The characters and their respective relationships are credible and I especially enjoy the way their professional and their private lives are interlaced.
This was such a gripping crime thriller that had my heart racing at times and once I had started reading, I didn't want to put it down. I was enthralled right until the great reveal, which was unexpected, to me anyway. Last Victim was brilliant, highly addictive and fast-paced and I can't wait to see what treats might be in store if there is a book six. This is a must-read, very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Joffe Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
Helen H. Durrant has drawn a very deep and complex character in DCI Rachel King. She is back from maternity leave and has secrets that she'd prefer to keep buried. As with the other books I've read by this author, several in this series, two from her 'Calladine & Bayliss' series, and two from the 'DI Harry Lennox/DS Jess Wilde' series, the intricate plot is well written. There are suspects to watch, and twists and turns that resemble a long roller coaster ride. The characters and their respective relationships are credible and I especially enjoy the way their professional and their private lives are interlaced.
This was such a gripping crime thriller that had my heart racing at times and once I had started reading, I didn't want to put it down. I was enthralled right until the great reveal, which was unexpected, to me anyway. Last Victim was brilliant, highly addictive and fast-paced and I can't wait to see what treats might be in store if there is a book six. This is a must-read, very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Joffe Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
January 10, 2022
The fifth instalment of the DCI Rachel King books. This one starts with a kidnapped baby & a kidnapped elderly lady , both of which are relatives of members of the “trio” which is the three men who run the streets of Manchester. One of the men is then reported missing this looks like it’s all connected.
Rachel has just returned to work from maternity leave and is playing happy families with the notorious Jed mcateer. Previously the man who ran Manchester’s streets but who is now on the straight and narrow.
As Rachel and her team try to solve the case her home life and return to work all begin to collide.
Rachel has just returned to work from maternity leave and is playing happy families with the notorious Jed mcateer. Previously the man who ran Manchester’s streets but who is now on the straight and narrow.
As Rachel and her team try to solve the case her home life and return to work all begin to collide.
December 2, 2021
Another fantastic story by Helen H. Durrant!
Book 5, in the Detective Rachel King Thrillers Series and, once again, as is usually the way with this author's work, I found this hard to put down!
DCI Rachel King hasn't got time to slide gently back into work mode. She is called out on the eve before she is due back off maternity leave.
A baby has been taken, but not just any baby.
This child belongs to one of the 'Trio,' Scott Agnew - successor to Rachel's baby Daddy and other half, Jed McAteer.
Rachel and colleague, Elwyn, are under pressure to find out who is responsible for the kidnapping and more importantly, why... Why take an innocent child?
As if this isn't enough, an elderly lady is taken from a Care home in broad daylight.
Her Son is none other than, Ray Hutton, another member of the Trio.
It seems that someone has it in for the Trio.
Who is pulling the strings - dishing out punishment... for revenge, or to prove a point? Or something else entirely...
There is even more going on and Rachel and her team are working flat out to try and save two lives and get to the bottom of this before anyone else comes to harm.
With threats to Rachel, a partner who is acting strange and being secretive - are the rumours right?
I could almost feel my own stomach churning along with Rachel's, she's a tough cookie, but there's only so much she can take and with so much at stake, how can she fight Jed's corner without solid proof?
Filled with plenty of action, secrets and red herrings, this well plotted story captured me and had me intrigued and on edge right to the end.
I connect so well to this authors work - the narrative never drones on, it's straight to the heart of the matter. There is nothing worse than a boring book and I have no fear of that from this author.
I highly recommend this book!
This is my honest and unbiased review.
Book 5, in the Detective Rachel King Thrillers Series and, once again, as is usually the way with this author's work, I found this hard to put down!
DCI Rachel King hasn't got time to slide gently back into work mode. She is called out on the eve before she is due back off maternity leave.
A baby has been taken, but not just any baby.
This child belongs to one of the 'Trio,' Scott Agnew - successor to Rachel's baby Daddy and other half, Jed McAteer.
Rachel and colleague, Elwyn, are under pressure to find out who is responsible for the kidnapping and more importantly, why... Why take an innocent child?
As if this isn't enough, an elderly lady is taken from a Care home in broad daylight.
Her Son is none other than, Ray Hutton, another member of the Trio.
It seems that someone has it in for the Trio.
Who is pulling the strings - dishing out punishment... for revenge, or to prove a point? Or something else entirely...
There is even more going on and Rachel and her team are working flat out to try and save two lives and get to the bottom of this before anyone else comes to harm.
With threats to Rachel, a partner who is acting strange and being secretive - are the rumours right?
I could almost feel my own stomach churning along with Rachel's, she's a tough cookie, but there's only so much she can take and with so much at stake, how can she fight Jed's corner without solid proof?
Filled with plenty of action, secrets and red herrings, this well plotted story captured me and had me intrigued and on edge right to the end.
I connect so well to this authors work - the narrative never drones on, it's straight to the heart of the matter. There is nothing worse than a boring book and I have no fear of that from this author.
I highly recommend this book!
This is my honest and unbiased review.
December 9, 2021
Detective Rachel King is back in this 5th addition to the brilliant series. As book 4 ended we saw her leaving to begin her maternity leave and her very rocky relationship with Jed McAteer appeared to have settled down and Jed has promised to be a hands on Dad.
As we begin book 5 her maternity leave is coming to an end as she is called back to work early following the kidnapping of a baby. Not just any baby this is the baby of one of the TRIO a group of gangsters who are running the county. When other family members of the Trio go missing it becomes clear someone is determined to take over the dark underworld of Manchester and top of the list of suspects is Jed.
As Rachel tries to get back into work mode it soon becomes clear that the promises Jed made to do his share of parental duties are unlikely to be fulfilled. As Rachel juggles childcare with a difficult, high profile case she has additional problems, where does Jed keep disappearing to?
With suspicions that Jed is being unfaithful or returning to his bad old days, A young baby and a difficult case the last thing Rachel needs is a threat against her family.
This is an absolutely brilliant story with many twists and turns that keeps the pages turning. I kept changing my mind about who was in charge of the takeover and as a mother I could relate to the conflicting emotions Rachel was dealing with. The ending: well, absolutely edge of the seat, shocking and unexpected – brilliant.
Characters that keep on giving, a story that keeps the pages turning and just the right amount of personal lives interwoven into the book this was an absolutely stunning read in every way.
I can’t wait for book 6. 5 golden stars from me.
As we begin book 5 her maternity leave is coming to an end as she is called back to work early following the kidnapping of a baby. Not just any baby this is the baby of one of the TRIO a group of gangsters who are running the county. When other family members of the Trio go missing it becomes clear someone is determined to take over the dark underworld of Manchester and top of the list of suspects is Jed.
As Rachel tries to get back into work mode it soon becomes clear that the promises Jed made to do his share of parental duties are unlikely to be fulfilled. As Rachel juggles childcare with a difficult, high profile case she has additional problems, where does Jed keep disappearing to?
With suspicions that Jed is being unfaithful or returning to his bad old days, A young baby and a difficult case the last thing Rachel needs is a threat against her family.
This is an absolutely brilliant story with many twists and turns that keeps the pages turning. I kept changing my mind about who was in charge of the takeover and as a mother I could relate to the conflicting emotions Rachel was dealing with. The ending: well, absolutely edge of the seat, shocking and unexpected – brilliant.
Characters that keep on giving, a story that keeps the pages turning and just the right amount of personal lives interwoven into the book this was an absolutely stunning read in every way.
I can’t wait for book 6. 5 golden stars from me.
December 3, 2021
What a cracking read! So much going on and so many variables to consider!
Rachel King is readying herself to return to work as Detective Chief Inspector after maternity leave when she gets a sudden call out and jumps into the job the evening before her planned start. The discovery that a baby has been abducted can’t be left until the next morning and, although it tugs at her heartstrings, Rachel knows the job comes first. Matters get considerably worse when she finds out that the baby belongs to one of Manchester’s crime bosses who, along with his partners, are known at the Trio. When the elderly mother of another of the pack goes missing from her care home, Rachel realises that this can only spell bad news for herself and her colleagues; the Trio are known for their vindictive violence and won’t take these incidents without retaliation. Things get considerably worse when Rachel’s partner and father of her child, Jed – also an ex-gangland boss – is suspected of being behind both disappearances. What does that mean for her role?
Another amazingly complex series from the pen of Helen H. Durrant – and one which kept me on my toes throughout. With red herrings in the mix, my nose followed where it was led and a merry dance was had! I am in awe of any author who can be so prolific and produce different series without ever getting muddled up; this is another gripping, twisty novel which I didn’t seem to have been reading for any length of time before I came to the nitty-gritty of who did what to who, when and why. It’s always a pleasure to read Helen’s books and this is another triumph. Creatively written with subtle misdirection along the way, I was left with my jaw hanging open when I got to find out who the villain was. Definitely one you don’t want to miss, and completely worth all five sparkling stars!
Rachel King is readying herself to return to work as Detective Chief Inspector after maternity leave when she gets a sudden call out and jumps into the job the evening before her planned start. The discovery that a baby has been abducted can’t be left until the next morning and, although it tugs at her heartstrings, Rachel knows the job comes first. Matters get considerably worse when she finds out that the baby belongs to one of Manchester’s crime bosses who, along with his partners, are known at the Trio. When the elderly mother of another of the pack goes missing from her care home, Rachel realises that this can only spell bad news for herself and her colleagues; the Trio are known for their vindictive violence and won’t take these incidents without retaliation. Things get considerably worse when Rachel’s partner and father of her child, Jed – also an ex-gangland boss – is suspected of being behind both disappearances. What does that mean for her role?
Another amazingly complex series from the pen of Helen H. Durrant – and one which kept me on my toes throughout. With red herrings in the mix, my nose followed where it was led and a merry dance was had! I am in awe of any author who can be so prolific and produce different series without ever getting muddled up; this is another gripping, twisty novel which I didn’t seem to have been reading for any length of time before I came to the nitty-gritty of who did what to who, when and why. It’s always a pleasure to read Helen’s books and this is another triumph. Creatively written with subtle misdirection along the way, I was left with my jaw hanging open when I got to find out who the villain was. Definitely one you don’t want to miss, and completely worth all five sparkling stars!
November 17, 2021
221 pages
4 stars
Plenty of twists, turns and red herrings in this latest book by Helen Durrant.
The reader gets to see the crime happen in the prologue. So they now have some knowledge of what happened.
DCI Rachel King is back from her maternity leave with a shock. A two-month old baby has been kidnapped. The mother is totally destroyed. The father is a shady crime figure. Oh boy, do they have their hands full. There are three crime figures basically vying for the same territory.
When another crime boss’ elderly mother goes missing, the tension in the story ratchets up. They must solve this case! Things go wrong. People are lying and covering up. Or, they just won’t talk at all.
This book is written and plotted well, as are all of Ms. Durrant’s novels. She writes very well, holding the reader’s interest from start to finish. I liked DCI Rachel and her team. I appreciate it when a police team gets along well. I don’t care for the backstabbing in some books.
I want to thank NetGalley and Joffe Books for forwarding to me a copy of this great book for me to read, enjoy and review. The opinions expressed here are solely my own.
4 stars
Plenty of twists, turns and red herrings in this latest book by Helen Durrant.
The reader gets to see the crime happen in the prologue. So they now have some knowledge of what happened.
DCI Rachel King is back from her maternity leave with a shock. A two-month old baby has been kidnapped. The mother is totally destroyed. The father is a shady crime figure. Oh boy, do they have their hands full. There are three crime figures basically vying for the same territory.
When another crime boss’ elderly mother goes missing, the tension in the story ratchets up. They must solve this case! Things go wrong. People are lying and covering up. Or, they just won’t talk at all.
This book is written and plotted well, as are all of Ms. Durrant’s novels. She writes very well, holding the reader’s interest from start to finish. I liked DCI Rachel and her team. I appreciate it when a police team gets along well. I don’t care for the backstabbing in some books.
I want to thank NetGalley and Joffe Books for forwarding to me a copy of this great book for me to read, enjoy and review. The opinions expressed here are solely my own.
December 6, 2021
Living on the streets Lee is after revenge on Scott Agnew after what happened to her sister Laura and jumps at the chance to kidnap his baby son by pretending to be the new babysitter from the agency. But just who is “the boss” who gave Lee the job? Will there be a ransom demand or is the motive more sinister? The Trio, Manchester’s brutal organised crime drug dealing ring run by Agnew, Ray Hutton and Brendan Blackmore, are on the boss’s hit list as well as Lee’s and it’s not long before Lee is given orders to take Hutton’s elderly mother from her care home. She wonders if there will be a third target for her.
DCI Rachel King, now living with reformed criminal turned property developer Jed McAteer, is due back at work the next morning after taking maternity leave following the birth of their now six-month-old baby Len. She can’t wait to get back as it is the job she lives for, and it’s no real hardship to be called out the night before to the scene of baby James’s abduction. She is still stationed at East Manchester CID running her small loyal team of DS Elwyn Pryce and DCs Jonny Farrell and Amy Metcalfe, unfortunately now with new Supt Mark Kenton who Rachel knows and dislikes from their past overlapping cases. As the detectives pursue their investigation into the infant’s kidnap, reports come in of the abduction of Hutton’s mother and the two-day disappearance of Blackmore. They wonder if someone is planning to take over the city and all eyes, including Rachel’s, fall on Jed. Of course all the while Jed is under suspicion Rachel knows she won’t be allowed near the case, so first she needs to prove him innocent and then set about finding the new boss’s true identity. With so many twists and surprises being thrown up by the evidence and police interviews, and no idea who can really be trusted, will they ever discover the real truth before anyone else gets hurt?
As I have come to expect from this series this is a story with a complex and fast paced plot and loads of shocks, viable suspects and red herrings along the way to a stunning conclusion. This book could be read as a stand-alone but I would definitely recommend reading the series in order as many of the characters have a lot of history between them. I do hope there will be more stories to follow. 4.5*
DCI Rachel King, now living with reformed criminal turned property developer Jed McAteer, is due back at work the next morning after taking maternity leave following the birth of their now six-month-old baby Len. She can’t wait to get back as it is the job she lives for, and it’s no real hardship to be called out the night before to the scene of baby James’s abduction. She is still stationed at East Manchester CID running her small loyal team of DS Elwyn Pryce and DCs Jonny Farrell and Amy Metcalfe, unfortunately now with new Supt Mark Kenton who Rachel knows and dislikes from their past overlapping cases. As the detectives pursue their investigation into the infant’s kidnap, reports come in of the abduction of Hutton’s mother and the two-day disappearance of Blackmore. They wonder if someone is planning to take over the city and all eyes, including Rachel’s, fall on Jed. Of course all the while Jed is under suspicion Rachel knows she won’t be allowed near the case, so first she needs to prove him innocent and then set about finding the new boss’s true identity. With so many twists and surprises being thrown up by the evidence and police interviews, and no idea who can really be trusted, will they ever discover the real truth before anyone else gets hurt?
As I have come to expect from this series this is a story with a complex and fast paced plot and loads of shocks, viable suspects and red herrings along the way to a stunning conclusion. This book could be read as a stand-alone but I would definitely recommend reading the series in order as many of the characters have a lot of history between them. I do hope there will be more stories to follow. 4.5*
December 4, 2021
This is the fifth book in the Rachel King series. While it can be read as a standalone, I would highly recommend reading at least the previous book Forgotten Victim for a bit more background.
Rachel is back at work after having a baby, only to find herself looking into a kidnap of a two-month-old baby. To make matters worse, the baby's father is a notorious criminal and member of a gang called The Trio. Another family member of The Trio is kidnapped, and it's up to Rachel and her team to get to the bottom of it.
Last Victim is a character driven novel which, rather than trying to make you figure out a mystery, you have to work out the more complicated motives for the crime.
I still enjoy reading the character of Rachel, even though she's happily settled with her on/off beau
Jed and a new baby, it has not softened that suspicious nature of hers one bit and I love it!
There were some good villains in this novel, in particular the slightly terrifying Grace Blackmore, wife of one of the members of The Trio. She's definitely not someone you'd want to cross!
I felt like this edged more into a gangland thriller rather than a police procedural, but of course that's just my opinion.
If you're a fan of gritty, gangster filled novels, then I'd highly recommend Last Victim to you!
Rachel is back at work after having a baby, only to find herself looking into a kidnap of a two-month-old baby. To make matters worse, the baby's father is a notorious criminal and member of a gang called The Trio. Another family member of The Trio is kidnapped, and it's up to Rachel and her team to get to the bottom of it.
Last Victim is a character driven novel which, rather than trying to make you figure out a mystery, you have to work out the more complicated motives for the crime.
I still enjoy reading the character of Rachel, even though she's happily settled with her on/off beau
Jed and a new baby, it has not softened that suspicious nature of hers one bit and I love it!
There were some good villains in this novel, in particular the slightly terrifying Grace Blackmore, wife of one of the members of The Trio. She's definitely not someone you'd want to cross!
I felt like this edged more into a gangland thriller rather than a police procedural, but of course that's just my opinion.
If you're a fan of gritty, gangster filled novels, then I'd highly recommend Last Victim to you!
December 5, 2021
DCI Rachel King is due to go back to work after her maternity leave, however there`s no hope of an easy return. When reports come in that a baby has been taken.
When a child is taken its serious but this baby`s father is no other than Scott Agnew one of the men who along with two others make up "The Trio" a group of gangsters who control the Manchester drug scene..
The childs disappearance is closely followed by an elderly lady being abducted from a care home in broad daylight. Her son is Ray Hutton , another member of "The Trio"
Is someone trying to prove a point?
Could it be revenge ?.
Someone has certainly got it in for "The Trio"
Inquiries suggest the word on the street is that there`s someone new who wants to take over the territory they control.
To Rachels dismay the prime suspect is her partner, Jed McAteer, ex-gangland boss and father of her youngest child.
Jed has become secretive and is certainly acting strangely, Could the rumours be right?
Surely he wouldn`t throw away their life together but can she trust him.
Once again a brilliant, fast paced read with a cliff hanger ending. Can`t wait to read the next book in the series!
Thanks to Joffe books for sending me this as an ARC in return for my honest opinion
When a child is taken its serious but this baby`s father is no other than Scott Agnew one of the men who along with two others make up "The Trio" a group of gangsters who control the Manchester drug scene..
The childs disappearance is closely followed by an elderly lady being abducted from a care home in broad daylight. Her son is Ray Hutton , another member of "The Trio"
Is someone trying to prove a point?
Could it be revenge ?.
Someone has certainly got it in for "The Trio"
Inquiries suggest the word on the street is that there`s someone new who wants to take over the territory they control.
To Rachels dismay the prime suspect is her partner, Jed McAteer, ex-gangland boss and father of her youngest child.
Jed has become secretive and is certainly acting strangely, Could the rumours be right?
Surely he wouldn`t throw away their life together but can she trust him.
Once again a brilliant, fast paced read with a cliff hanger ending. Can`t wait to read the next book in the series!
Thanks to Joffe books for sending me this as an ARC in return for my honest opinion
December 8, 2021
Book 5 in The DCI Rachel King Series and another fabulous read. I really like this series, it’s a great well written police procedural series. This book is no exception to the earlier books; great, fast moving storyline and a good cast of characters kept me reading until late.
Briefly, Rachel is about to return to work after maternity leave when she is called to attend a missing baby case. Shortly afterwards an elderly lady goes missing from a care home. They have one thing in common, the baby’s father and the woman’s son are two of the three bosses of the Trio, a local crime syndicate. Rachel is very concerned when her husband and former crime boss, Jed, appears to be implicated. She is beginning to doubt that ‘a leopard can change its spots’. As the case progresses bodies begin to turn up. Can Rachel and her team solve the case before anyone else dies?
Full of twists and turns this was such a good read and had me fooled pretty much until the end as I changed my mind repeatedly about who was behind the kidnapping and murders. A great ending and ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me.
Briefly, Rachel is about to return to work after maternity leave when she is called to attend a missing baby case. Shortly afterwards an elderly lady goes missing from a care home. They have one thing in common, the baby’s father and the woman’s son are two of the three bosses of the Trio, a local crime syndicate. Rachel is very concerned when her husband and former crime boss, Jed, appears to be implicated. She is beginning to doubt that ‘a leopard can change its spots’. As the case progresses bodies begin to turn up. Can Rachel and her team solve the case before anyone else dies?
Full of twists and turns this was such a good read and had me fooled pretty much until the end as I changed my mind repeatedly about who was behind the kidnapping and murders. A great ending and ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me.
December 6, 2021
DCI Rachel King is back from her maternity leave having finally given into her old flame Jed's attentions. She lands straight into a child abduction, followed by the kidnap of an old lady and a missing husband. Not only do all three seem to be linked to a group called the Trio but also to Jed who has promised Rachel that everything he does now will be legitimate and yet however much she wants to believe him, her copper's intuition is saying otherwise. Jed is questioned by her superior and released as the evidence all points elsewhere. Lots of red herrings are interspersed throughout so just when you think you know who is guilty, you are thrown another curve ball to make you wonder. Good taut story with a great ending.
Thanks to Joffe Books for the ARC to review.
Thanks to Joffe Books for the ARC to review.
December 6, 2021
Last Victim by Helen H Durrant is book 5 in the DCI Rachel King crime thriller series. This book begins as Rachel is returning to work after having her and Jed’s son, Len. A child is missing and then a mother disappears from her care home and then a husband is missing. They are all connected as being part of the Trio in charge of the drugs and crime crime in Manchester.
Rachel’s return to work may be comprised by the Trio’s involvement because Jed used to run this syndicate. Is he involved again?
Highly recommended
Rachel’s return to work may be comprised by the Trio’s involvement because Jed used to run this syndicate. Is he involved again?
Highly recommended
May 26, 2024
I read this book not realising that it was part of a series, a little annoying, however will go back and read them all as I really enjoyed this book.
August 9, 2022
A Good addition to the DCI Rachel King series. A little bit of a slow start but then lots of twists and turns and left on a massive cliffhanger!
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe books for the arc of this book in exchange for an honest review
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe books for the arc of this book in exchange for an honest review
December 2, 2021
Last victim by Helen H Durrant.
Detective Rachel King Thrillers Book 5.
A two-month-old baby is missing. James’s parents left him with a babysitter while they went out for dinner. But when they get home, there’s no sign of baby or sitter.
This is the last thing DCI Rachel King wants to hear on her last night of maternity leave. But worse is to come. The missing infant belongs to Scott Agnew, alleged member of Manchester drug-dealing ring, the Trio.
Omg my favourite detective is back. I love Rachel. Absolutely brilliant read. Read in one sitting. 5*.
Detective Rachel King Thrillers Book 5.
A two-month-old baby is missing. James’s parents left him with a babysitter while they went out for dinner. But when they get home, there’s no sign of baby or sitter.
This is the last thing DCI Rachel King wants to hear on her last night of maternity leave. But worse is to come. The missing infant belongs to Scott Agnew, alleged member of Manchester drug-dealing ring, the Trio.
Omg my favourite detective is back. I love Rachel. Absolutely brilliant read. Read in one sitting. 5*.
December 3, 2021
Excellent read
Rachel has had her baby and her maternity leave is over. Called into work early about a kidnapping, Rachel is plunged into a complex case that spreads and twists more each day. Good characters are well crafted and used to great effect in blurring the lines between lies and truths.
Rachel has had her baby and her maternity leave is over. Called into work early about a kidnapping, Rachel is plunged into a complex case that spreads and twists more each day. Good characters are well crafted and used to great effect in blurring the lines between lies and truths.
May 28, 2024
This was another great British crime thriller from this series.
Between kidnaps, murders and betrayals, it's no wonder DCI Rachel King is torn every which way.
Well-written and fast-paced, I enjoyed this story because of the believable characters, mystery, tension, suspense and plenty of twists.
Recommended.
Between kidnaps, murders and betrayals, it's no wonder DCI Rachel King is torn every which way.
Well-written and fast-paced, I enjoyed this story because of the believable characters, mystery, tension, suspense and plenty of twists.
Recommended.
November 24, 2021
4.25⭐
This was my first introduction to the DCI Rachel King series and I was intrigued to say the least purely because the lead characters personal life is unusual in that her partner and father of her baby boy Len is a reformed gangster, and I wondered how that would play out especially when it came to her investigating a case that has links to the gangster community.
And my answer was an exciting and twisty read. That had me guessing as Rachel just back from maternity leave is asked to investigate the kidnapping of a baby boy whose dad happens to be part of a trio of alleged gangsters who supposedly took over from Rachel's partner Jed and when the other two are targeted Rachel is concerned that Jed will be blamed and her family targeted.
But nothing prepares her for what her investigation uncovers and I was hooked and would definitely read more from this series in the future. I would also go back and read the books I've missed out on.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
This was my first introduction to the DCI Rachel King series and I was intrigued to say the least purely because the lead characters personal life is unusual in that her partner and father of her baby boy Len is a reformed gangster, and I wondered how that would play out especially when it came to her investigating a case that has links to the gangster community.
And my answer was an exciting and twisty read. That had me guessing as Rachel just back from maternity leave is asked to investigate the kidnapping of a baby boy whose dad happens to be part of a trio of alleged gangsters who supposedly took over from Rachel's partner Jed and when the other two are targeted Rachel is concerned that Jed will be blamed and her family targeted.
But nothing prepares her for what her investigation uncovers and I was hooked and would definitely read more from this series in the future. I would also go back and read the books I've missed out on.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
December 1, 2021
This is book five in the DCI Rachel King series and I have enjoyed reading the series from the start and this is another great edition to the series.
This is an engaging faced paced crime mystery full of suspense and red herrings a cracking read that held my attention from the beginning to the end.
This is an engaging faced paced crime mystery full of suspense and red herrings a cracking read that held my attention from the beginning to the end.
November 26, 2021
This is another brilliant story in this series but although it can be read as a standalone I would recommend reading the whole series as you would be missing out on some fabulous reading. This is a really fast paced read and I would like to thank the author and Joffe Books for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
November 15, 2021
A gripping crime mystery from the author, DCI Rachel King book five
her partner Jed is now a successful property developer on the straight and narrow he is well out of the Manchester crime world of drugs dealing and dodgy dealings.
The well known Trio Brendan Blackmore, Ray Hutton and Scott Agnew are still circling around the city and when Scott's baby son James goes missing along with the babysitter from the apartment block in new Islington, Rachel is sent from East Manchester station it's her first day back off maternity leave and its now over and Jed is not happy. There is no ransom been sent and when the mother of Ray Hutton is took out of her old peoples home and Brendan Blackmore goes missing this is someone out for revenge for these three, but who's involved and out to get the Trio and take over their patch.
Wow I found this Book with so many twists and turns and so many characters that are guilty and not guilty it will keep you on your toes Rachel and her team have their work cut out big time who is to be trusted, right through to the end you will have your motives them BAM it's knocked onto another character and their reasons are going to shock you. I am hoping there is going to many more books in this series that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Brilliant story from this author.
her partner Jed is now a successful property developer on the straight and narrow he is well out of the Manchester crime world of drugs dealing and dodgy dealings.
The well known Trio Brendan Blackmore, Ray Hutton and Scott Agnew are still circling around the city and when Scott's baby son James goes missing along with the babysitter from the apartment block in new Islington, Rachel is sent from East Manchester station it's her first day back off maternity leave and its now over and Jed is not happy. There is no ransom been sent and when the mother of Ray Hutton is took out of her old peoples home and Brendan Blackmore goes missing this is someone out for revenge for these three, but who's involved and out to get the Trio and take over their patch.
Wow I found this Book with so many twists and turns and so many characters that are guilty and not guilty it will keep you on your toes Rachel and her team have their work cut out big time who is to be trusted, right through to the end you will have your motives them BAM it's knocked onto another character and their reasons are going to shock you. I am hoping there is going to many more books in this series that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Brilliant story from this author.
November 16, 2021
Rachel is now happily with Jed and they have a new baby, him having put his past behind him- or has he? DCI Rachel has a missing baby and elderly person and a man- the link being a crime group. Is Jed somehow involved? It looks like someone is out for revenge on the Trio as they are known but why. There is also a possibility as Rachel soon finds out that an ex-cop has been part of this. Can the team find the perpetrators and get the people returned safely? This is book five in the Rachel King series and could probably stand alone- however some background stories wouldn't be so clear- and why miss out on other wonderful reads?
Another wonderful page turning read from Helen. Despite the subject matter there is always that warmth of character and a very well thought out plot that seems to speed turn the pages each and every time. I settle into these and before I know it those words appear “ the end” showing to me it was an enjoyable easy read. A fast moving read with twists and turns.
Another wonderful page turning read from Helen. Despite the subject matter there is always that warmth of character and a very well thought out plot that seems to speed turn the pages each and every time. I settle into these and before I know it those words appear “ the end” showing to me it was an enjoyable easy read. A fast moving read with twists and turns.
November 16, 2021
Last Victim is book five in the series. This can be a stand alone read. There is enough information given that you do not have to go back to the beginning. But this series is very good and worth starting at the beginning.
DCI Rachel King is returning to work after the birth of her son with her partner Jed. He is now a property developer on the straight and narrow and out of the Manchester crime world of drugs. The night before Rachel is to return she gets a call regarding a missing child. The father of the missing child is Scott Agnew, part of the Trio which have taken over after Jed has left the crime world.
Next up is Brendan Blackmore who turns up missing and then Ray Hutton's mother is taken from a elder care facility. The two remaining members and Blackmore's wife are anxious and demanding the police do something. Rachel will have her hands full trying to get to the bottom and safely return the missing people.
With so many twists and turns and so many characters that are guilty and not guilty it will keep you guessing who is responsible.
DCI Rachel King is returning to work after the birth of her son with her partner Jed. He is now a property developer on the straight and narrow and out of the Manchester crime world of drugs. The night before Rachel is to return she gets a call regarding a missing child. The father of the missing child is Scott Agnew, part of the Trio which have taken over after Jed has left the crime world.
Next up is Brendan Blackmore who turns up missing and then Ray Hutton's mother is taken from a elder care facility. The two remaining members and Blackmore's wife are anxious and demanding the police do something. Rachel will have her hands full trying to get to the bottom and safely return the missing people.
With so many twists and turns and so many characters that are guilty and not guilty it will keep you guessing who is responsible.
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