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DI Gus McGuire #8
Unjust Bias
Unjust Bias: Being different could cost you your life…
A murdered boy disowned by his family.
A teen terrified his past will catch up with him.
A girl with nowhere to go.
Men with rage so visceral they will do anything.
With the unsolved murder of a homeless boy still preying on his mind, DI Gus McGuire is confronted with a similar murder, a missing teen and no clues.
Does the answer lie with an illegal dark web site where ‘slaves’ are auctioned off? Or with an online forum for teens?
How can Gus keep people safe when unjust bias rears its head and being different could cost you your life…?
A murdered boy disowned by his family.
A teen terrified his past will catch up with him.
A girl with nowhere to go.
Men with rage so visceral they will do anything.
With the unsolved murder of a homeless boy still preying on his mind, DI Gus McGuire is confronted with a similar murder, a missing teen and no clues.
Does the answer lie with an illegal dark web site where ‘slaves’ are auctioned off? Or with an online forum for teens?
How can Gus keep people safe when unjust bias rears its head and being different could cost you your life…?
- GenresThriller
390 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 4, 2022
39 people are currently reading
51 people want to read
About the author
Liz Mistry
23 books193 followersBorn in Scotland, Made in Bradford sums up Liz Mistry’s life. Liz uses her experiences of living and working in the inner city to flavour her writing. Her gritty crime fiction police procedural novels set in Bradford embrace the city she describes as ‘Warm, Rich and Fearless’ whilst exploring the darkness that lurks beneath.
Struggling with severe clinical depression and anxiety for a large number of years, Liz often includes mental health themes in her writing. Being a debut novelist in her fifties was something Liz had only dreamed of and she counts herself lucky, whilst pinching herself regularly to make sure it’s all real. One of the nicest things about being a published author is chatting with and responding to readers’ feedback and Liz regularly does events at local libraries, universities, literature festivals and open mics. She also teaches creative writing too.
Struggling with severe clinical depression and anxiety for a large number of years, Liz often includes mental health themes in her writing. Being a debut novelist in her fifties was something Liz had only dreamed of and she counts herself lucky, whilst pinching herself regularly to make sure it’s all real. One of the nicest things about being a published author is chatting with and responding to readers’ feedback and Liz regularly does events at local libraries, universities, literature festivals and open mics. She also teaches creative writing too.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
July 31, 2022
I really enjoyed my first Mistry book!
I hadn't realised this was part of a series, but soon enough I didn't care!
I was hooked immediately, and I knew this would be an author I would want to read more of.
As the story kicked in, I couldn't put it down. I loved the plot, the dialogue, and most of all, (surprising for me) the characters.
Gus is a fabulous character and I would love to continue this series with him!
I hadn't realised this was part of a series, but soon enough I didn't care!
I was hooked immediately, and I knew this would be an author I would want to read more of.
As the story kicked in, I couldn't put it down. I loved the plot, the dialogue, and most of all, (surprising for me) the characters.
Gus is a fabulous character and I would love to continue this series with him!
August 19, 2022
Unjust Bias sees the very welcome return of DI Gus McGuire and his team in the eighth book in this series. It can easily be enjoyed as a standalone but the plot does feature characters and events from past cases which will obviously resonate more with those who have read the previous novels.
I love crime fiction that examines contemporary issues and in Unjust Bias, Liz Mistry powerfully and empathetically gives a voice to some of the most vulnerable people in society. This is not an easy read but despite its deeply upsetting scenes, it is never gratuitous. However, this is undoubtedly a dark book which pulls no punches about the cruelty - physical, emotional and mental - inflicted on people who are perceived to be different – most notably those in the LGBTQIA community.
The book opens with a tense prologue set six years previously before introducing a character known as Angel whose true identity isn't revealed until much later. Angel is a terrifying creation and although his behaviour seems horrifically unhinged, it becomes evident that his followers may not be as extreme but still support his cause. The multiple viewpoints in Unjust Bias means that the full picture doesn't become clear for some time but despite the complexity of the case, the threat posed to some of the characters and the twisted morals of others is painfully apparent throughout. The clever structuring is complemented by the excellent pace of the novel and while the painstaking, exhausting nature of the investigation is portrayed impeccably, the narrative itself is utterly compulsive.
It's not surprising that such a grim case should take its toll on Gus and his colleagues; their frustration and anguish is palpable at times but so too is their fortitude. This becomes a very personal investigation for them and readers of the previous books in the series will be particularly moved by one aspect of the story that sees the return of a couple of characters from a past case. However, despite the terrible crimes perpetrated here and the unconventional lengths the team are forced to go to, their humour and care for one another brings much needed light to the darkness. The characterisation is superb and although there are despicable people here, bravery and selflessness is depicted too. I didn't like all the characters and there were some I hated but I believed in every one of them.
Unjust Bias does what the best crime fiction is capable of and although it is difficult reading about the pain inflicted on others, through intolerance and ignorance, it is an important, perceptive look at subjects which need to be brought into the open. It sometimes feels wrong to say I enjoyed a book which features truly horrific crimes but Liz Mistry writes with such heart and I was completely gripped by this moving, exciting and thought-provoking novel. Highly recommended.
I love crime fiction that examines contemporary issues and in Unjust Bias, Liz Mistry powerfully and empathetically gives a voice to some of the most vulnerable people in society. This is not an easy read but despite its deeply upsetting scenes, it is never gratuitous. However, this is undoubtedly a dark book which pulls no punches about the cruelty - physical, emotional and mental - inflicted on people who are perceived to be different – most notably those in the LGBTQIA community.
The book opens with a tense prologue set six years previously before introducing a character known as Angel whose true identity isn't revealed until much later. Angel is a terrifying creation and although his behaviour seems horrifically unhinged, it becomes evident that his followers may not be as extreme but still support his cause. The multiple viewpoints in Unjust Bias means that the full picture doesn't become clear for some time but despite the complexity of the case, the threat posed to some of the characters and the twisted morals of others is painfully apparent throughout. The clever structuring is complemented by the excellent pace of the novel and while the painstaking, exhausting nature of the investigation is portrayed impeccably, the narrative itself is utterly compulsive.
It's not surprising that such a grim case should take its toll on Gus and his colleagues; their frustration and anguish is palpable at times but so too is their fortitude. This becomes a very personal investigation for them and readers of the previous books in the series will be particularly moved by one aspect of the story that sees the return of a couple of characters from a past case. However, despite the terrible crimes perpetrated here and the unconventional lengths the team are forced to go to, their humour and care for one another brings much needed light to the darkness. The characterisation is superb and although there are despicable people here, bravery and selflessness is depicted too. I didn't like all the characters and there were some I hated but I believed in every one of them.
Unjust Bias does what the best crime fiction is capable of and although it is difficult reading about the pain inflicted on others, through intolerance and ignorance, it is an important, perceptive look at subjects which need to be brought into the open. It sometimes feels wrong to say I enjoyed a book which features truly horrific crimes but Liz Mistry writes with such heart and I was completely gripped by this moving, exciting and thought-provoking novel. Highly recommended.
July 15, 2022
OMG 😲 this is one of the best books I have read in a while. The switch between characters is fantastic and leaves you guessing the outcome right to the end, which is a right bombshell. I have laughed, cried and gasped while reading and the ending has left me grasping for more.
July 16, 2022
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book from the author, whose writing I can highly recommend. I read the book over 2 days and it's a thrilling read from the start. Although this is book 8 in the DI Gus Mc Guire series, it can easily be read as a stand alone, both by adults and teenagers. The subject matter of transgender is handled with sensitivity and the characterisation is excellent. The characters came alive for me and I certainly felt empathy for the young people described so well by Liz. It's another winner for the author and fans will love it. The ending left me eagerly awaiting the next installment for Gus and his team.
August 9, 2022
An interesting mystery unfolding in a marvelous manner. The plot picked up in an instant, although there were too many characters. A multi POV plot is going to confuse the readers a bit. Also, the book has some LGBTQ content. Still, I liked the mystery and adventure feel of the book. It was an enjoyable read.
I would like to give the book 4 stars. Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources for providing me an opportunity to read and review the book.
Read more on https://bibliophileverse.blogspot.com...
I would like to give the book 4 stars. Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources for providing me an opportunity to read and review the book.
Read more on https://bibliophileverse.blogspot.com...
August 4, 2022
I’ve enjoyed Reads by Liz Mistry before so I was excited to have the opportunity to read Unjust Bias. Let me tell you…THIS WAS SO GOOD. While this is the 8th in the series, it can be read as a standalone.
Liz Mistry’s writing grabs your attention and doesn’t let go. The only reason I put this down was because I fell asleep, but as soon as I woke, I grabbed the book and finished before I even left bed. I just had to know what would happen. The pacing is quick and the plot is so thrilling.
Unjust Bias covers sensitive topics is such a competent way. This book covers conversion therapy and the hardships transgendered people face because they are considered ‘different.’ I am loving the fact that this story is not only enthralling but also educational.
I highly recommend Unjust Bias. An excellent read by an awesome author!
Thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources for the free review copy and tour invite. All opinions are my own and unbiased.
Liz Mistry’s writing grabs your attention and doesn’t let go. The only reason I put this down was because I fell asleep, but as soon as I woke, I grabbed the book and finished before I even left bed. I just had to know what would happen. The pacing is quick and the plot is so thrilling.
Unjust Bias covers sensitive topics is such a competent way. This book covers conversion therapy and the hardships transgendered people face because they are considered ‘different.’ I am loving the fact that this story is not only enthralling but also educational.
I highly recommend Unjust Bias. An excellent read by an awesome author!
Thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources for the free review copy and tour invite. All opinions are my own and unbiased.
July 13, 2022
Wow, this book was a very thrilling read and one that was very hard to put down. I read this in just over a day, it was that good. When I read a book that pulls me in right from the start and any free time I have is spent going back to it to continue reading, I know I’m onto something very, very special. And this book didn’t disappoint. Liz Mistry has wrote a cracker of a book here and I loved being back in the worlds of Gus, Alice, Compo and Taffy. When a young man is found dead Gus is determined to find the murderer. I loved that the story is told through some of the characters, one I absolutely loathed, and that the story line covers very real and current issues of transgender and abuse. These issues are dealt with very sensitively and play a big part in the plot line, which I found all too believable in todays society. I loved the inclusion of some wonderful light hearted moments and small bits of humour that just made me smile and laugh out loud, and were, in fact, quite touching and showed how the characters deal with what they are investigating and how it affects them. I won’t lie, I was hooked from the first page until the last and was willing Gus and his team to get justice for the murder victims. And as for the unexpected cliff hanger ending .....
Overall Liz Mistry has come up with a fantastic book and plot line that I think her readers are sure to enjoy. I certainly did, I love her writing and characters, they are portrayed so well and I feel like I know them having followed this series from the start. I feel Liz makes the best connection with me as a reader through her characters and writing, the characters just jump out of the pages and become so vivid in my mind and imagination. I absolutely loved this one, can’t fault it at all and I’ll be desperate to get my hands on the next book.
Overall Liz Mistry has come up with a fantastic book and plot line that I think her readers are sure to enjoy. I certainly did, I love her writing and characters, they are portrayed so well and I feel like I know them having followed this series from the start. I feel Liz makes the best connection with me as a reader through her characters and writing, the characters just jump out of the pages and become so vivid in my mind and imagination. I absolutely loved this one, can’t fault it at all and I’ll be desperate to get my hands on the next book.
July 13, 2022
DI Gus McGuire is one of those characters that you can't help but like. He's a no nonsense type of guy but underneath has a heart of gold, someone you would definitely want on your side. He has that right mix of determination to do justice and a very human emotional side that only shows in certain circumstances and in this book this latter part is shown through both personal wrangles as well as work where it is usually lurking under the surface. Who couldnt help have a human side when there are murders especially of young innocent people? This time it's about conversion therapy linked to a church- something that sadly still exists and this is well researched and sensitively treated. Of how some people can't accept others and believe it is “ God's will” that they intervene.
This is a competent, compulsive thriller that had me engrossed. There's more than one line of crime and the characters as ever with Liz’s books shine through the pages. This is a gem of a read with superb writing and a thrilling plot. A book most certainly to remember. Stunning.
For more reviews please follow me on Twitter@nickisbookblog
September 3, 2022
Ufffff I’d forgotten how hard hitting Liz Mistry’s writing is! The prologue was tense before I was introduced to an Angel. An Angel who’s further from a celestial being than David Boreanaz’s same-named character. I had an unnerving feeling Mistry was taking me on one helluva ride.
Meanwhile Gus has his work cut out for him. A body with no clues, DNA and no one who really cares for. But there’s also issues closer to home that aren’t his professional responsibility. You know how it is though, when you have a personal interest in something, can you trust anyone else to go all out to sort it out? I don’t think Gus can despite having the full force of West Yorkshire Police there.
As I read, I thought I had my heavenly named adversary all sown up, I thought I’d been clever and had worked it all out seriously ahead of the game. But no, Mistry had totally blindsided me! I was so fixated on my suspect, I didn’t consider any one else. What a mistake to make!
And just as I thought the story was all done 🥊🥊 Mistry throws a sucker punch leaving me reeling, ready for the next instalment. I won’t be making my previous mistake and not returning to Gus’s Bradford. I’ll be back for book 9! And I need to go back and play catch up!
Meanwhile Gus has his work cut out for him. A body with no clues, DNA and no one who really cares for. But there’s also issues closer to home that aren’t his professional responsibility. You know how it is though, when you have a personal interest in something, can you trust anyone else to go all out to sort it out? I don’t think Gus can despite having the full force of West Yorkshire Police there.
As I read, I thought I had my heavenly named adversary all sown up, I thought I’d been clever and had worked it all out seriously ahead of the game. But no, Mistry had totally blindsided me! I was so fixated on my suspect, I didn’t consider any one else. What a mistake to make!
And just as I thought the story was all done 🥊🥊 Mistry throws a sucker punch leaving me reeling, ready for the next instalment. I won’t be making my previous mistake and not returning to Gus’s Bradford. I’ll be back for book 9! And I need to go back and play catch up!
July 14, 2022
This is a really good book. I quite enjoyed it. While this is the 8th outing for DI Gus McGuire, it is the first book in the series that I have read. However, this book is so well written that it can easily be read as a standalone story or enjoyed as part of a series. I didn’t feel in any way that there was background information missing that would be required to understand the ongoing plot of McGuire and his team.
The story hooked me immediately and I wanted to read it as quickly as I could to see what would happen next. It kept me on the edge of my seat. The book contains several subplot lines which are skillfully woven together to create a multi-layered book. The main characters are interesting, likeable and realistic. They know right from wrong and struggle if the rules have to be bent.
I will definitely read the previous books in this series. I highly recommend this book.
The story hooked me immediately and I wanted to read it as quickly as I could to see what would happen next. It kept me on the edge of my seat. The book contains several subplot lines which are skillfully woven together to create a multi-layered book. The main characters are interesting, likeable and realistic. They know right from wrong and struggle if the rules have to be bent.
I will definitely read the previous books in this series. I highly recommend this book.
July 21, 2022
When a 17 year old homeless lad is found dead and dumped by rubbish, Gus and the team want to do their best for him and catch the killer.
With no clues or witnesses, they soon have to admit defeat and the case goes on the back burner - until another body is found.
This is a difficult story to read of how hard life can be made for people who are classed as “different”.
It was lovely to have Gus, Alice, Compo and Taffy back again. There was just enough wonderful little nuggets of humour to break up the intensity of the story.
When reading this authors books, you can always tell how much she cares about the subjects she is writing.
And as for the ending - well, I need the next book to be written and soon!
With no clues or witnesses, they soon have to admit defeat and the case goes on the back burner - until another body is found.
This is a difficult story to read of how hard life can be made for people who are classed as “different”.
It was lovely to have Gus, Alice, Compo and Taffy back again. There was just enough wonderful little nuggets of humour to break up the intensity of the story.
When reading this authors books, you can always tell how much she cares about the subjects she is writing.
And as for the ending - well, I need the next book to be written and soon!
August 5, 2022
The story beings with a terrified woman fleeing an abusive criminal of a husband and taking herself and two kids somewhere safe. Six years later are they still safe as a man gets his depraved kicks on the dark web and spots a familiar face? DI Gus McGuire, loving his new role as father to three-year-old Billy, attends the post mortem of Zak Ibrahim, a teenage boy disowned by his family and left to live and subsequently die on the streets. Gus vows to get justice for the lad but three months later there has been little progress into his murder and the case is shelved. Angel runs a “normalisation” group for perceived deviants along with acolytes See, Hear and Speak, practising self-flagellation to bring him closer to his God. Flynn is part of an online group of teens who find comfort in each other from the disparaging views of many people and he is gathering evidence against Angel’s Pure Life group as they dish out their form of corrective therapy. One night the zoom meeting attendees watch in horror as one of their own, Lucy Smith, meets her death. Jo Jo, who readers will remember from a previous story, and IT expert DC John Compton (Compo) have been monitoring the web, and an alert throws up a link to the hideous Slave Site, where stolen pictures are unloaded and auctioned off to the highest bidder. Suddenly it looks like Jo Jo and his young sister Jessie may be in danger from someone prepared to pay a fortune to find them, and it is down to Gus and his close-knit team of DS Alice Cooper, DC Talvinder Bhandir (Taffy) and Compo to locate the site owner, the bidder and a hacker. But then another teenager turns up dead. Is this connected to Zak’s murder or the sinister website or both?
There are lots of threads running concurrently here and the author weaves a fabulous tale involving horribly prejudiced individuals together with some really nasty ruthless people. Once again, this author does not shy away from featuring very current topics, such as abuse and transgender hatred and ignorance. I really would suggest reading these stories in order to get the very best from a brilliant series and to learn the back stories of the characters. The tension and intrigue creeps up all the way through in a book I simply could not pull myself away from as it crashes towards a shocking ending, and with a bit of a cliff hanger left for the team, I can’t wait to see what happens next. 5*
There are lots of threads running concurrently here and the author weaves a fabulous tale involving horribly prejudiced individuals together with some really nasty ruthless people. Once again, this author does not shy away from featuring very current topics, such as abuse and transgender hatred and ignorance. I really would suggest reading these stories in order to get the very best from a brilliant series and to learn the back stories of the characters. The tension and intrigue creeps up all the way through in a book I simply could not pull myself away from as it crashes towards a shocking ending, and with a bit of a cliff hanger left for the team, I can’t wait to see what happens next. 5*
August 19, 2022
Oh wow! ‘Unjust Bias’ is gritty, hard hitting, current and is full of the scariest criminals ever. I found myself totally gripped by each story strand. Angel scared me to death and a certain character left me gutted. I can’t even say why because I’d spoil the story but all I can say is that this particular crime broke my heart.
Gus and the team provide much entertainment during the investigation. I felt the camaraderie between him, Alice and Compco was a delight to read. And, the cyber crime chapters - exciting stuff.
The LBGTQ+ community and the discrimination they suffer, still, is at the core of this novel and the crimes highlighted were despicable. Liz speaks a lot about the now and then in her acknowledgments and it’s shocking to see that progress has been so slow. I found this thought-provoking and I know I’ll think about those words and this novel for a long time.
In conclusion, ‘Unjust Bias’ is a thoughtful, scary, crime book that will send shivers down your spine!
Gus and the team provide much entertainment during the investigation. I felt the camaraderie between him, Alice and Compco was a delight to read. And, the cyber crime chapters - exciting stuff.
The LBGTQ+ community and the discrimination they suffer, still, is at the core of this novel and the crimes highlighted were despicable. Liz speaks a lot about the now and then in her acknowledgments and it’s shocking to see that progress has been so slow. I found this thought-provoking and I know I’ll think about those words and this novel for a long time.
In conclusion, ‘Unjust Bias’ is a thoughtful, scary, crime book that will send shivers down your spine!
August 26, 2022
Absolutely brilliant this story keeps you thinking about what will happen next
August 4, 2022
‘Unjust bias’ gets its claws into you and won't let go until you have frantically devoured it. Enthralling and engaging, this is just my cup of tea - Yorkshire, strong and with a pinch of spices. Sorry couldn't resist that! Just pass the chai!
This is the first book by Liz Mistry that I have read but it will not be the last! I was always aware of her series but just hadn't gotten round to reading them. What a mistake that was. It instantly felt as if I was reading about friends rather than people I did not know of and that is a testament to the strength of the writing. The characters were engaging and complex and I embraced them from the start. Although this is book 8 in the Gus McGuire series you can read this as a standalone. Normally I am loathed to jump into a series this established I am glad I did as it was fantastic!
When Gus and his team are called to a crime scene, they find a young Asian man stuffed behind some bins, discarded as rubbish. He has been disowned by his family for being gay and has been surviving on the streets before his murder. Gus chases down all the clues but they lead to nowhere. It's not until a young girl is found murdered in a similar manner months later that they begin to connect the dots. Plus, when Jo Jo turns up hysterical as he has spotted his sister on a porn site on the dark web the team try desperately to take the image down. But the auction stops and someone offers a very large sum for her location…
This was a cracker of a book and it pulled me in instantly in the world that Liz has woven with such amazing characters and an excellent narrative. Gus, Alice, Taffy and Compo are all brilliant characters but I liked the cheek of Alice and the passion of Gus and Compo. The issues of transgender, conversion therapy and the associated issues were dealt with in such a sensitive and emphatic way and it was clear that Liz has done her research on this topic. The scene where the kids were in a zoom meeting had me shed a tear. Despite people reading books like these as entertainment its also a chance to educate the reader on these issues and Liz has struck this balance perfectly!
This was my introduction, or shall I say indoctrination, into the Gus McGuire series but it's now an auto-read and I will be delving into the previous books as well!
Let me know if you pick this one up!
This is the first book by Liz Mistry that I have read but it will not be the last! I was always aware of her series but just hadn't gotten round to reading them. What a mistake that was. It instantly felt as if I was reading about friends rather than people I did not know of and that is a testament to the strength of the writing. The characters were engaging and complex and I embraced them from the start. Although this is book 8 in the Gus McGuire series you can read this as a standalone. Normally I am loathed to jump into a series this established I am glad I did as it was fantastic!
When Gus and his team are called to a crime scene, they find a young Asian man stuffed behind some bins, discarded as rubbish. He has been disowned by his family for being gay and has been surviving on the streets before his murder. Gus chases down all the clues but they lead to nowhere. It's not until a young girl is found murdered in a similar manner months later that they begin to connect the dots. Plus, when Jo Jo turns up hysterical as he has spotted his sister on a porn site on the dark web the team try desperately to take the image down. But the auction stops and someone offers a very large sum for her location…
This was a cracker of a book and it pulled me in instantly in the world that Liz has woven with such amazing characters and an excellent narrative. Gus, Alice, Taffy and Compo are all brilliant characters but I liked the cheek of Alice and the passion of Gus and Compo. The issues of transgender, conversion therapy and the associated issues were dealt with in such a sensitive and emphatic way and it was clear that Liz has done her research on this topic. The scene where the kids were in a zoom meeting had me shed a tear. Despite people reading books like these as entertainment its also a chance to educate the reader on these issues and Liz has struck this balance perfectly!
This was my introduction, or shall I say indoctrination, into the Gus McGuire series but it's now an auto-read and I will be delving into the previous books as well!
Let me know if you pick this one up!
August 8, 2022
DI Gus McGuire is back with another gritty, timely, realistic case that’s not for the faint of heart.
Without leads or clues, the investigation into the murder of a young homeless boy—dumped like trash near trash—cools until another body is found.
The restarted investigation not only connects the two murders but leads Gus and his team into the hidden world of the young, LGBQ+ community, its members shunned by family and society while they struggle with living their lives as their true selves.
The story also enters the dark world of the Dark Web where self-flagellation and punishment for being different have more value than human life. Though graphic, scenes are not gratuitous and served to pull this reader deeper into the story while also wrapping me in the victims’ emotions.
Liz Mistry has mastery of character-driven reads, and Unjust Bias is another feather in her cap. Told from multiple points of view, her main characters are more than part of an awesome investigative team and live out loud. Unfortunately, even the contemptible characters too.
Though part of a series, installment eight of the DI Gus McGuire series can be read as a fully developed standalone, with no “holes” or lapses in back story. Plot twists and red herrings made this a page-turner right up to the unpredictable ending, and have me anxious to read book nine!
Unjust Bias is unique crime fiction, murder mystery, and police procedural with a generous slice of social commentary of life which exists outside the pages of this must-read.
Enjoy!
Without leads or clues, the investigation into the murder of a young homeless boy—dumped like trash near trash—cools until another body is found.
The restarted investigation not only connects the two murders but leads Gus and his team into the hidden world of the young, LGBQ+ community, its members shunned by family and society while they struggle with living their lives as their true selves.
The story also enters the dark world of the Dark Web where self-flagellation and punishment for being different have more value than human life. Though graphic, scenes are not gratuitous and served to pull this reader deeper into the story while also wrapping me in the victims’ emotions.
Liz Mistry has mastery of character-driven reads, and Unjust Bias is another feather in her cap. Told from multiple points of view, her main characters are more than part of an awesome investigative team and live out loud. Unfortunately, even the contemptible characters too.
Though part of a series, installment eight of the DI Gus McGuire series can be read as a fully developed standalone, with no “holes” or lapses in back story. Plot twists and red herrings made this a page-turner right up to the unpredictable ending, and have me anxious to read book nine!
Unjust Bias is unique crime fiction, murder mystery, and police procedural with a generous slice of social commentary of life which exists outside the pages of this must-read.
Enjoy!
August 3, 2022
Unjust Bias is book 8 in the DI Gus McGuire series by Liz Mistry. I’m glad to see the return of Gus. I have missed reading about him. A young man is strangled, a young man who is different, and it affects Gus greatly. You can really feel the emotions running through him. Alice, Taffy and Compo are back, and they bring a few light-hearted moments to the sombre mood as the depravity of those who try to force their control over those weaker, is very well portrayed. The tension rises throughout the book, and it is such an unbelievably good read, I couldn’t put it down. Loved it and it will be one of my books of the year
August 16, 2022
This book evoked so many different emotions, the writing and characters were spot on and I was drawn into the story from the first page. Pure evil is at large in Bradford targetting young adults who are different from their idea of the norm, whatever that is!!!. How on earth could families turn their backs on their own children just because they want to live the life that is right for them and not what others perceive it to be. I loved the Yorkshire dialect and humour that snuck in even in the darkest moments. DI Gus McGuire is dealing with this case which gets worse by the day, the team is also working on another case where they have to act with speed and not let emotions get in the way. I think this book would be good for older teens to read as well as adults. Highly recommend and worthy of 5* plus, I hope that the series continues
August 8, 2022
First of all, I was leery to join this tour, because this is book 8 of the series and I hate starting in the middle. But the synopsis was just too good to pass up. In the end, this can absolutely be read as a stand-alone and I’m very happy I took the leap!
I knew that was going to be a heavy read, but there were times I literally had to stop reading for a few minutes. I think in my safe little world, I almost feel like the dark web is fictional. Obviously, I know that it is real, but I am just not privy to what actually goes on there. Reading this book, it is quite eye-opening and heart-wrenching to think of the things some humans go through in order to fulfill fantasies of other sick and depraved creatures (they don’t deserve to be called humans).
I did love how the different parts of the story didn’t really seem to fit together at first. Mistry does a great job slowing building the stories and making them fit together. There did seem to be a great number of characters that at times I found myself confused as to who they were. This didn’t exactly affect my reading though, because it would click as I kept going.
Overall, this was a great read and I hope to go back and read the rest of the series at some point! I would like to thank Rachel’s Random Resources and Liz Mistry for this #gifted advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily!
I knew that was going to be a heavy read, but there were times I literally had to stop reading for a few minutes. I think in my safe little world, I almost feel like the dark web is fictional. Obviously, I know that it is real, but I am just not privy to what actually goes on there. Reading this book, it is quite eye-opening and heart-wrenching to think of the things some humans go through in order to fulfill fantasies of other sick and depraved creatures (they don’t deserve to be called humans).
I did love how the different parts of the story didn’t really seem to fit together at first. Mistry does a great job slowing building the stories and making them fit together. There did seem to be a great number of characters that at times I found myself confused as to who they were. This didn’t exactly affect my reading though, because it would click as I kept going.
Overall, this was a great read and I hope to go back and read the rest of the series at some point! I would like to thank Rachel’s Random Resources and Liz Mistry for this #gifted advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily!
August 15, 2022
Excellent series
Yeah Gus is back!! Absolutely love this series, definitely recommend you read it. One of those Authors that when a new book comes out you drop everything else. This is a very emotive subject and one victim in particular really touched my heart. Gus and his team are all very different personalities who all work brilliantly together and you are invested in them all. Excellent read and I do hope there will be more to come in this series.
Yeah Gus is back!! Absolutely love this series, definitely recommend you read it. One of those Authors that when a new book comes out you drop everything else. This is a very emotive subject and one victim in particular really touched my heart. Gus and his team are all very different personalities who all work brilliantly together and you are invested in them all. Excellent read and I do hope there will be more to come in this series.
August 15, 2022
Once again you had us guessing
I found this very enlightening. Enjoyed the book greatly. Thanks again Liz. I feel an honour to know you. We need this too be made into a crime series. Keeping my fingers crossed. Can't wait for the next book
I found this very enlightening. Enjoyed the book greatly. Thanks again Liz. I feel an honour to know you. We need this too be made into a crime series. Keeping my fingers crossed. Can't wait for the next book
August 16, 2022
Another excellent book in the series. Love Gus and his team
August 8, 2022
The sense of menace and suspense are evoked from the first and continue as the story develops—the eighth book in the DI Gus McGuire series. Character developments and relationships make this an addictive read, but this is a complete story.
Dark and disturbing, it explores the dangers of being different. The poignantly depicted young characters resonate, and the lack of empathy from those who should care is heartbreaking. The dynamic within the investigating team is authentic and gives this story its lighter moments.
A mix of police procedural, psychological suspense and drama, this is a thought-provoking crime series.
I received a copy of this book from the author.
Dark and disturbing, it explores the dangers of being different. The poignantly depicted young characters resonate, and the lack of empathy from those who should care is heartbreaking. The dynamic within the investigating team is authentic and gives this story its lighter moments.
A mix of police procedural, psychological suspense and drama, this is a thought-provoking crime series.
I received a copy of this book from the author.
July 31, 2022
Book 8 in the DI Gus McGuire series and a very welcome return it is too. I have read the authors other books but my loyalties remain with Gus. As always a well constructed and well written story which revolves around the real but rarely talked about issue of conversion therapy. LGBTQ is dealt with in a compassionate and caring manner but highlights the issue around the families who feel unable to support their children/siblings, or worse still actively denounce them.
Briefly, the body of a teenage boy is found with evidence of sexual and other physical violence but that isn’t what killed him. When a second body is found in similar circumstances and the teenage son of a school friends is missing Gus and his team are fighting against the clock to prevent more deaths.
Alongside this case it’s lovely to catch up on Gus’ private life and see his turmoil over having very limited access to his son. This is a fast paced story and I read it in a day as I was so keen to see how this turned out. With twists and turns and outside influences on the main storyline this was a brilliant read with a shocking climax. I hope the author has book 9 ready for us soon as I need answers! Fabulous ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Briefly, the body of a teenage boy is found with evidence of sexual and other physical violence but that isn’t what killed him. When a second body is found in similar circumstances and the teenage son of a school friends is missing Gus and his team are fighting against the clock to prevent more deaths.
Alongside this case it’s lovely to catch up on Gus’ private life and see his turmoil over having very limited access to his son. This is a fast paced story and I read it in a day as I was so keen to see how this turned out. With twists and turns and outside influences on the main storyline this was a brilliant read with a shocking climax. I hope the author has book 9 ready for us soon as I need answers! Fabulous ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 4, 2022
Great to catch up with DI Gus McGuire and the team, yet again another bloody fantastic read. Although part of a series from which over time you get to know the characters and their history, but this could very easily be read as a stand-alone too. Touching on sensitive subject matter but written well and in the right way. I won’t write about the storyline as I feel that’s the job of the blurb, it sets the scene and will either peak your interest or it won’t, the blurb for Unjust Bias certainly peaked mine. From the first page the story grabs you and doesn’t let go till the last page. A worthy 5 star read
August 8, 2022
Wow wow wow!!!! What an absolute stunner of a book...Telling the story of cult like issues and heartbreak for Gus and his team of absolutely brilliant colleagues. At times I had ideas of who Angel See Hear and Speak were but got three of them wrong ...This story ended on a cliffhanger so I hope this means there's more of Gus and his team!!!
August 4, 2022
I have read all the Gus Maguire books, and I must say the author’s writing just gets better and better, I think this is one of her best! In this latest offering, I found the characters well developed, and damaged enough to make them believable and relatable: I experienced feelings of sympathy, compassion, anger, and disgust along the way.
The very topic of the book makes it, in places, a hard read, but it is written remarkably well and none of the more sensitive chapters are gratuitous or simply there to shock.
A well-deserved 5 stars from me.
The very topic of the book makes it, in places, a hard read, but it is written remarkably well and none of the more sensitive chapters are gratuitous or simply there to shock.
A well-deserved 5 stars from me.
August 7, 2022
Wow!!
This book was tough to read. But it was relevant to this day and age. It was hard to read in places but it was well written. It was great to read about Gus McGuire again. I hope there are many more books to come!
This book was tough to read. But it was relevant to this day and age. It was hard to read in places but it was well written. It was great to read about Gus McGuire again. I hope there are many more books to come!
August 4, 2022
The tagline "being different could cost you your life" sums up this brilliant book perfectly. It was great to meet Gus McGuire and the team once again. The murder of a homeless young man is the beginning of an investigation which unearths some heartbreaking events. This series continues to be one of my favourite series. Looking forward to the next book!
July 31, 2022
Another great edition to the Di Gus Mcguire series. There is lots going on here but Liz manages to handle all the threads with expert precision and ease. We have topics of homelessness, transgender, racism, mental health plus murders and personal issues to deal with and they are all given equal weight and handled with sensitivity whilst educating the reader at the same time. And then just when you have reached the end, there is another climax to deal with.
Thanks to the author for the ARC to review.
Thanks to the author for the ARC to review.
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