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DI Jack MacIntosh #1
Seven Days to Die
Please note this book is a completely revised version of Seven Days.
A brutal killer who strangles young women and leaves their bodies strewn across London’s parks. A killer who leaves his next victim’s shoe beside the body of his last one. Detective Jack MacIntosh has seven days to find the truth.
A young woman’s body is discovered in Hyde Park. Wearing only one shoe.
Close to the body, Detective Jack MacIntosh finds a black stiletto, diamante buckle glinting in the early morning sun. But it doesn’t belong to the victim.
Two days later, another young woman is found strangled to death in nearby Green Park. Wearing just one shoe — the matching stiletto. Hidden in the long grass beside the body, the police uncover a low-heeled court shoe.
Detective Jack and his team are in a race against time to find the owner of the court shoe before it’s far, far too late.
At the same time, Jack is fighting demons of his own. Demons which rise up from the past and threaten to cloud his judgement just when he needs it most.
Detective Jack is hunting a brutal killer. A killer who delights in playing cat-and-mouse games. Who will win this deadly battle of wits?
A brutal killer who strangles young women and leaves their bodies strewn across London’s parks. A killer who leaves his next victim’s shoe beside the body of his last one. Detective Jack MacIntosh has seven days to find the truth.
A young woman’s body is discovered in Hyde Park. Wearing only one shoe.
Close to the body, Detective Jack MacIntosh finds a black stiletto, diamante buckle glinting in the early morning sun. But it doesn’t belong to the victim.
Two days later, another young woman is found strangled to death in nearby Green Park. Wearing just one shoe — the matching stiletto. Hidden in the long grass beside the body, the police uncover a low-heeled court shoe.
Detective Jack and his team are in a race against time to find the owner of the court shoe before it’s far, far too late.
At the same time, Jack is fighting demons of his own. Demons which rise up from the past and threaten to cloud his judgement just when he needs it most.
Detective Jack is hunting a brutal killer. A killer who delights in playing cat-and-mouse games. Who will win this deadly battle of wits?
436 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 17, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
February 25, 2021
Check out all of my books at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
SEVEN DAYS (DI Jack MacIntosh Book #2) by Michelle Kidd is the exciting new book in the DI Jack MacIntosh series. Once again, Ms. Kidd has written a page turner that kept me guessing the identity of killer incorrectly well into the night. While this book’s plot is a complete investigation, to get all of the backstory on all the characters, I feel it is helpful to start with “The Phoenix Project” which is book #1 in this fast-paced thriller/British police procedural series.
It is July 2012 and DI Jack MacIntosh and his team are assigned the monumental case of capturing a serial killer in just seven days before the Opening Ceremonies for the London Summer Olympics. Women’s bodies are being discovered strangled and dumped in London parks. There appear to be no ties to connect the victims and all of them have been thoroughly cleaned of all forensic evidence.
As the days count down, Jack works to discover the killer while still fighting demons from his past that could cloud his judgement when it is most important. The killer has Isabel. Will Jack and his team be able to uncover the killer before it is too late?
It was great to be reunited with the characters from the first book and introduced to DS Carmichael in this one. One minor problem was I did feel Jack had too many flashbacks written into the story and at times they slowed the pace a bit, but I did realize they were included to show the extent of his PTSD which he has never dealt with in his adulthood. I love not only Ms. Kidd’s intricately written plot twists and surprises that comprise the individual book’s plotline, but also her ability to still leave small threads that arc over all the books in the series without making you feel cheated.
I recommend this second book in this series and I am anxiously waiting for the next!
SEVEN DAYS (DI Jack MacIntosh Book #2) by Michelle Kidd is the exciting new book in the DI Jack MacIntosh series. Once again, Ms. Kidd has written a page turner that kept me guessing the identity of killer incorrectly well into the night. While this book’s plot is a complete investigation, to get all of the backstory on all the characters, I feel it is helpful to start with “The Phoenix Project” which is book #1 in this fast-paced thriller/British police procedural series.
It is July 2012 and DI Jack MacIntosh and his team are assigned the monumental case of capturing a serial killer in just seven days before the Opening Ceremonies for the London Summer Olympics. Women’s bodies are being discovered strangled and dumped in London parks. There appear to be no ties to connect the victims and all of them have been thoroughly cleaned of all forensic evidence.
As the days count down, Jack works to discover the killer while still fighting demons from his past that could cloud his judgement when it is most important. The killer has Isabel. Will Jack and his team be able to uncover the killer before it is too late?
It was great to be reunited with the characters from the first book and introduced to DS Carmichael in this one. One minor problem was I did feel Jack had too many flashbacks written into the story and at times they slowed the pace a bit, but I did realize they were included to show the extent of his PTSD which he has never dealt with in his adulthood. I love not only Ms. Kidd’s intricately written plot twists and surprises that comprise the individual book’s plotline, but also her ability to still leave small threads that arc over all the books in the series without making you feel cheated.
I recommend this second book in this series and I am anxiously waiting for the next!
January 2, 2023
A very predictable crime thriller. A serial killer is on the loose and Detective Jack Macintosh has seven days to catch him or her oh and the London Olympics are about to start. A few tense moments, strong characters but nothing to get my heart racing. All in all a good read .
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
December 31, 2022
Jack MacIntosh Mysteries Book 1
A brutal killer who strangles young women and leaves their bodies strewn across London's parks. A killer who leaves his next victim's shoe beside the body of his last one. Detective Jack MacIntosh has seven days to find the truth. A young woman's body is found in Hyde Park leaving only one shoe. Close to the body, Detective Jack MacIntosh finds a black stiletto, diamante buckle glinting in the early morning sun. But it doesn't belong to the victim. Two days later, another young woman is found strangled to death in nearby Green Park, wearing just one shoe - the missing stiletto.
This book is a revised edition of Seven Days. Although the pace is a bit on the slow side, I was still pulled quite quickly into this story. I liked the authors writing style. The story has a dual timeline, 1998 - 2012. The characters are flawed, but I quite like that. It makes the characters more realistic. Jack MacIntosh and his team have to work fast to try and catch the killer before he strikes again. But Jack has his own demons from his past. Demons that could cloud his conclusions. A great start to a new series.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #JoffeBooks and the author #MichelleKidd for my ARC of #SevenDaysToDie in exchange for an honest review.
A brutal killer who strangles young women and leaves their bodies strewn across London's parks. A killer who leaves his next victim's shoe beside the body of his last one. Detective Jack MacIntosh has seven days to find the truth. A young woman's body is found in Hyde Park leaving only one shoe. Close to the body, Detective Jack MacIntosh finds a black stiletto, diamante buckle glinting in the early morning sun. But it doesn't belong to the victim. Two days later, another young woman is found strangled to death in nearby Green Park, wearing just one shoe - the missing stiletto.
This book is a revised edition of Seven Days. Although the pace is a bit on the slow side, I was still pulled quite quickly into this story. I liked the authors writing style. The story has a dual timeline, 1998 - 2012. The characters are flawed, but I quite like that. It makes the characters more realistic. Jack MacIntosh and his team have to work fast to try and catch the killer before he strikes again. But Jack has his own demons from his past. Demons that could cloud his conclusions. A great start to a new series.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #JoffeBooks and the author #MichelleKidd for my ARC of #SevenDaysToDie in exchange for an honest review.
February 18, 2023
I was excited to read this book after reading the high reviews. It’s not a bad book, but I found the pace to be sooooo slow! And the constant flipping back and forth was too confusing. You had to really pay attention to the dates to keep up. I also guessed the killer earlier than I liked. It does have parts where the pace picks up, but not enough where I felt 4 stars was worthy!
January 6, 2023
I’ve read some of the later books in the series but not this, Book 1 in the Detective Inspector Jack MacIntosh Mysteries. Jack is a career officer, dedicated to the job to the exclusion of virtually everything else. His personality set at an early age when he found his mother hanging from a light fitting and he and his younger brother were taken into care. But despite his successful career he struggles with his mental health. A very well written police procedural, my favourite genre, with some great characters in the other detectives, his brother Chris and coffee shop owner Isabel.
Briefly, two bodies have been found, both in London parks, and wearing only one shoe. Disturbingly the missing shoe from the first victim was found near the second victim. Jack and the team are fighting against time as more bodies are found and then a friend of his goes missing.
As the first in series there was a lot of background in the book, some of which I’m expecting to see more of in book 2. Told in multiple timelines and locations I found this very easy to follow. Great plot and some great red herrings had me wrong guessing myself more than once until the killer was revealed. I thought this was a great read.
Briefly, two bodies have been found, both in London parks, and wearing only one shoe. Disturbingly the missing shoe from the first victim was found near the second victim. Jack and the team are fighting against time as more bodies are found and then a friend of his goes missing.
As the first in series there was a lot of background in the book, some of which I’m expecting to see more of in book 2. Told in multiple timelines and locations I found this very easy to follow. Great plot and some great red herrings had me wrong guessing myself more than once until the killer was revealed. I thought this was a great read.
January 15, 2023
It's seven days until the opening ceremony of the 2012 London Olympics and there's a serial killer on the loose.
So DI Jack Mackintosh of the Metropolitan Police and his team, including newly drafted in DS Cassidy have been tasked to find them and QUICK.
Because the eyes of the world are on London and the pressure for no bad press is immense.
But is DI Mackintosh with his demons really the right man for the job?
And with a killer who likes to play games. A dual timeline and intriguing characters. This was an engaging and enjoyable mystery. That certainly had me guessing at times.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
So DI Jack Mackintosh of the Metropolitan Police and his team, including newly drafted in DS Cassidy have been tasked to find them and QUICK.
Because the eyes of the world are on London and the pressure for no bad press is immense.
But is DI Mackintosh with his demons really the right man for the job?
And with a killer who likes to play games. A dual timeline and intriguing characters. This was an engaging and enjoyable mystery. That certainly had me guessing at times.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
October 24, 2023
Set against the backdrop of a buzzing and anticipatory London, Seven Days to Die by Michelle Kidd unfolds in July 2012, precisely seven days before the grandeur of the London Olympics is set to captivate the world. Amid the excitement, a dark shadow looms over the city as DI MacIntosh faces a race against time to unmask a cunning serial killer. The victims seem unrelated, and the killer leaves an eerie absence of forensic evidence.
MacIntosh is no ordinary detective. Like many iconic figures in the genre, he carries the burden of a complicated past that casts a shadow over his judgment. As he navigates the labyrinth of clues and suspects, his own demons add to the challenge of solving the heinous crimes. The past and the present converge, testing MacIntosh's mettle.
Kidd employs a dual timeline to provide context for DI MacIntosh's intricate personality through flashbacks. These details contribute significantly to character development. But slow the momentum somewhat. While the novel is a complete investigation, it subtly integrates references to the earlier book in the series, offering a sense of continuity for dedicated readers.
As a fun aside, the plot features a coffee shop with such enticing details that it could easily captivate the imagination of coffee enthusiasts.
I found the book to be a fun and engaging read with its fair share of unexpected twists. The constant countdown adds a layer of suspense that compelled me to turn the pages. However, upon closer reflection, the backdrop of the impending London Olympics and the international spotlight appeared somewhat contrived. I also think that those who have read extensively in the genre may find themselves one step ahead in the chase for answers.
In summary, Seven Days to Die will likely appeal to genre fans. Even though some aspects may not resonate with them.
Ava's Lit Life at Substack
Twitter/X
MacIntosh is no ordinary detective. Like many iconic figures in the genre, he carries the burden of a complicated past that casts a shadow over his judgment. As he navigates the labyrinth of clues and suspects, his own demons add to the challenge of solving the heinous crimes. The past and the present converge, testing MacIntosh's mettle.
Kidd employs a dual timeline to provide context for DI MacIntosh's intricate personality through flashbacks. These details contribute significantly to character development. But slow the momentum somewhat. While the novel is a complete investigation, it subtly integrates references to the earlier book in the series, offering a sense of continuity for dedicated readers.
As a fun aside, the plot features a coffee shop with such enticing details that it could easily captivate the imagination of coffee enthusiasts.
I found the book to be a fun and engaging read with its fair share of unexpected twists. The constant countdown adds a layer of suspense that compelled me to turn the pages. However, upon closer reflection, the backdrop of the impending London Olympics and the international spotlight appeared somewhat contrived. I also think that those who have read extensively in the genre may find themselves one step ahead in the chase for answers.
In summary, Seven Days to Die will likely appeal to genre fans. Even though some aspects may not resonate with them.
Ava's Lit Life at Substack
Twitter/X
January 10, 2023
I liked the main characters, even Carmichael! I found it an interesting story, although still had some questions by the end, especially the motive. The red herrings kept the story flowing, as did the different time lapses. One of the coincidences later in the book seemed a bit ridiculous though. I look forward to reading more about the main characters if this becomes a series.
October 26, 2023
Two stars means "ok" but I rarely use that designation. For me it means I do not wish to read further in this series and really did not enjoy the book overall. This will help hinder me from proceeding to next book in series.
Kindle Unlimited
Kindle Unlimited
January 28, 2023
London 2012. Another female body has been discovered. As before she hs been left in a park, strangled, and with one shoe found at the scene. DI Jack MacIntosh and his team investigate.
An entertaining modern mystery
An entertaining modern mystery
January 27, 2023
Crikey this is a stonker of a read.
This is book two in the series but reads perfectly as a stand alone.
There is a particularly sick serial killer on the loose. He is not only strangling and leaving his victims out in the open, but he's also leaving a shoe of the next.
As the team race against time to find the killer, who is apparently taunting them, the build up to the Olympic games coming to London is growing to fever pitch.
I really enjoyed the characters, and the coffee shop sounds so perfect I want to go there.
Jack is someone not afraid to fight the higher ups but not push too much.
The action is non stop and there is a side story that keeps it flying along at breakneck speed.
Truly brilliant in every way.
This is book two in the series but reads perfectly as a stand alone.
There is a particularly sick serial killer on the loose. He is not only strangling and leaving his victims out in the open, but he's also leaving a shoe of the next.
As the team race against time to find the killer, who is apparently taunting them, the build up to the Olympic games coming to London is growing to fever pitch.
I really enjoyed the characters, and the coffee shop sounds so perfect I want to go there.
Jack is someone not afraid to fight the higher ups but not push too much.
The action is non stop and there is a side story that keeps it flying along at breakneck speed.
Truly brilliant in every way.
February 5, 2024
grew on me. i didn't like the regimented "time, date, location" which each scene opened with; although good for orienting yourself in the story it felt very procedural and could have been done via subtler means. some very clumsy feeling lead-ins to the killer were better handled than i initially gave credit for.
was it really that hot in the summer of 2012? i don't remember!
was it really that hot in the summer of 2012? i don't remember!
May 9, 2020
Absolutely fantastic second book by this new author. It literally keeps you gripped from start to finish as DI Jack McIntosh tries to stop the serial killer claiming anymore victims. Tense in places and so many twists.
November 20, 2024
I absolutely loved this book. I was hooked from the begining to the end. It has so many twists and turns and red herrings that kept me guessing and each time I thought I had it worked out, I was wrong. Michelle Kidd is a new author to me and this is the first in a series so I am going to be looking for more.
*****************************************
A brutal killer who strangles young women and leaves their bodies strewn across London’s parks. A killer who leaves his next victim’s shoe beside the body of his last one. Detective Jack MacIntosh has seven days to find the truth.
A young woman’s body is discovered in Hyde Park. Wearing only one shoe.
Close to the body, Detective Jack MacIntosh finds a black stiletto, diamante buckle glinting in the early morning sun. But it doesn’t belong to the victim.
Two days later, another young woman is found strangled to death in nearby Green Park. Wearing just one shoe — the matching stiletto. Hidden in the long grass beside the body, the police uncover a low-heeled court shoe.
Detective Jack and his team are in a race against time to find the owner of the court shoe before it’s far, far too late.
At the same time, Jack is fighting demons of his own. Demons which rise up from the past and threaten to cloud his judgement just when he needs it most.
Detective Jack is hunting a brutal killer. A killer who delights in playing cat-and-mouse games. Who will win this deadly battle of wits?
*****************************************
A brutal killer who strangles young women and leaves their bodies strewn across London’s parks. A killer who leaves his next victim’s shoe beside the body of his last one. Detective Jack MacIntosh has seven days to find the truth.
A young woman’s body is discovered in Hyde Park. Wearing only one shoe.
Close to the body, Detective Jack MacIntosh finds a black stiletto, diamante buckle glinting in the early morning sun. But it doesn’t belong to the victim.
Two days later, another young woman is found strangled to death in nearby Green Park. Wearing just one shoe — the matching stiletto. Hidden in the long grass beside the body, the police uncover a low-heeled court shoe.
Detective Jack and his team are in a race against time to find the owner of the court shoe before it’s far, far too late.
At the same time, Jack is fighting demons of his own. Demons which rise up from the past and threaten to cloud his judgement just when he needs it most.
Detective Jack is hunting a brutal killer. A killer who delights in playing cat-and-mouse games. Who will win this deadly battle of wits?
October 13, 2023
The plot is not very original, too much like many other books of its type. A serial killer kidnaps women and keeps them in a remote cellar before eventually killing them. How many times have you heard that one before? Jack, a detective with a troubled past, leads an investigation that stumbles over one red herring after another. He is chewed out so many times you eventually feel sorry for him. His failures are passed off as the result of his delayed reaction to a childhood trauma that went untreated. His team makes too many mistakes and comes off looking too much like the Keystone Cops. The timeline jumps around too much and detracts from the story's flow. Pay close attention to the date at the beginning of each chapter, or you will get lost. Someone Jack cares about ends up in danger. Can his team get its act together in time to save her? If you make it this far, will you even still care? The ending comes too abruptly and it fizzles. It fails to deliver a satisfactory payoff that a reader would expect.
November 5, 2023
A bit slow paced, a mediocre read. The pace did pick up in parts, but not enough to leave 4 stars in my opinion.
February 24, 2021
A brand new detective series to me, I have to say that DI Jack MacIntosh is a great addition to the crime canon. This book was a fabulous thriller, set against the backdrop of a tense and claustrophobic London, sweltering under searing heat and almost boiling over with tension as the Opening Ceremony of the 2012 Olympic Games approaches. Against this simmering pressure cooker, Jack and his team are up against the clock to track down a serial killer who seems to be picking off victims at random.
Jack MacIntosh is a very relatable protagonist to carry the book. He seems very down to earth and approachable to his team, allowing them all to contribute and have their own ideas, which he takes seriously. He is obviously well regarded by his superiors, and has a cool relationship with his brother and other people in his life. I felt very affectionate towards him by the end of the book and would like to find out where his story goes from here. The details in the book about his past made me want to go back and read the first book in the series. In fact, I wish I had read the first book before I read this, as there were a few aspects of the book which would have made more sense with some of the back story, I think. However, I did enjoy it very much as a standalone.
The crime itself was baffling and intriguing at the same time. There was no obvious rhyme or reason to the murders and I could appreciate exactly why the team got lured down the false trails that they did. I fell into the trap more than once of believing it was going in a different direction, so the plot held me enthralled until the end and I didn’t guess where it was going before it was revealed. If I had a gripe, I wish there had been more details revealed at the end about the motivations behind some aspects of the killer’s behaviour, but I guess the reader is meant to draw their own conclusions about what happened and why.
There thread of the book involving DS Carmichael was a bit confusing, I wasn’t quite sure why it needed to play out the way it did, or what was the significance of one scene involving his and Jack’s pasts. I guess that maybe the first book might reveal more and I look forward to going back and catching up with that one. I do think the books would work best if read in sequence.
I really enjoyed the author’s writing style, it is easy to read, captivating and flows easily. I liked her cheeky foreshadowing references to events that have happened since the book’s setting of 2012. I think she has a really great voice, and I will definitely read more of her writing, because there was nothing I didn’t enjoy about the book. I would just advise that you read the first Jack McIntosh book first. I’m off to download it to my Kindle right now.
Jack MacIntosh is a very relatable protagonist to carry the book. He seems very down to earth and approachable to his team, allowing them all to contribute and have their own ideas, which he takes seriously. He is obviously well regarded by his superiors, and has a cool relationship with his brother and other people in his life. I felt very affectionate towards him by the end of the book and would like to find out where his story goes from here. The details in the book about his past made me want to go back and read the first book in the series. In fact, I wish I had read the first book before I read this, as there were a few aspects of the book which would have made more sense with some of the back story, I think. However, I did enjoy it very much as a standalone.
The crime itself was baffling and intriguing at the same time. There was no obvious rhyme or reason to the murders and I could appreciate exactly why the team got lured down the false trails that they did. I fell into the trap more than once of believing it was going in a different direction, so the plot held me enthralled until the end and I didn’t guess where it was going before it was revealed. If I had a gripe, I wish there had been more details revealed at the end about the motivations behind some aspects of the killer’s behaviour, but I guess the reader is meant to draw their own conclusions about what happened and why.
There thread of the book involving DS Carmichael was a bit confusing, I wasn’t quite sure why it needed to play out the way it did, or what was the significance of one scene involving his and Jack’s pasts. I guess that maybe the first book might reveal more and I look forward to going back and catching up with that one. I do think the books would work best if read in sequence.
I really enjoyed the author’s writing style, it is easy to read, captivating and flows easily. I liked her cheeky foreshadowing references to events that have happened since the book’s setting of 2012. I think she has a really great voice, and I will definitely read more of her writing, because there was nothing I didn’t enjoy about the book. I would just advise that you read the first Jack McIntosh book first. I’m off to download it to my Kindle right now.
February 13, 2021
This is the second book in the DI Jack MacIntosh series and it is another excellent crime thriller read. A serial killer is leaving bodies of women around London, nothing seems to connect them, there are no real similarities apart from some marks left on their bodies, and a random item left near the body.
The story is set just before the opening ceremony of the 2012 London Olympics, time is not on Jack and the team's side as those higher up want the case wrapped up before the prestigious event. The added pressure of a time constraint, as well as a case with very little clues, is bad enough, but add in a new team member who is vague, distant and at times elusive really doesn't help.
If you have read the previous book then you will have some idea about Jack, Stu and Isabel. These three are returning characters whose stories are woven into each other. The author has continued their individual stories, well more Jack's, into this second book. These three characters are interesting and are being developed further. If you haven't read the first book then you will miss some detail, but the author does a good job of providing a recap. In my opinion, though they are better read in order.
The author weaves a story that has the in=vestigating team scratching their heads, they clutch at straws at times as they try to progress with their hunt for the killer. The killer also relates his actions in this novel and this adds a wonderful sense of intrigue. It also allows for some wonderful red herrings to be dropped along the way. There is a psychological aspect to the story, and again it adds another element.
I really like the characters in this series, and there are the obvious new introductions. The continuation of existing characters backstories is good and I like getting to know them more. Another good aspect was the time limits that had been placed on the case, giving the team a sense of urgency and this is added to further in the story.
This is a fabulous crime thriller read that had me hooked very quickly. Even though this is still a new series I was delighted to find how quickly a couple of the main characters came back to me. This is one for crime fans, who like their police procedurals and it is one I would definitely recommend.
The story is set just before the opening ceremony of the 2012 London Olympics, time is not on Jack and the team's side as those higher up want the case wrapped up before the prestigious event. The added pressure of a time constraint, as well as a case with very little clues, is bad enough, but add in a new team member who is vague, distant and at times elusive really doesn't help.
If you have read the previous book then you will have some idea about Jack, Stu and Isabel. These three are returning characters whose stories are woven into each other. The author has continued their individual stories, well more Jack's, into this second book. These three characters are interesting and are being developed further. If you haven't read the first book then you will miss some detail, but the author does a good job of providing a recap. In my opinion, though they are better read in order.
The author weaves a story that has the in=vestigating team scratching their heads, they clutch at straws at times as they try to progress with their hunt for the killer. The killer also relates his actions in this novel and this adds a wonderful sense of intrigue. It also allows for some wonderful red herrings to be dropped along the way. There is a psychological aspect to the story, and again it adds another element.
I really like the characters in this series, and there are the obvious new introductions. The continuation of existing characters backstories is good and I like getting to know them more. Another good aspect was the time limits that had been placed on the case, giving the team a sense of urgency and this is added to further in the story.
This is a fabulous crime thriller read that had me hooked very quickly. Even though this is still a new series I was delighted to find how quickly a couple of the main characters came back to me. This is one for crime fans, who like their police procedurals and it is one I would definitely recommend.
February 26, 2021
I had the pleasure of reading and reviewing the first book to feature DI Jack MacIntosh, which is called ‘The Phoenix Project’. When I realised that I had another three books in the series to catch up on, I couldn’t wait to get started. So without further ado, I grabbed my Kindle, grabbed a cup of tea and settled down to read ‘Seven Days’. I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Seven Days’ but more about that in a bit.
It took me a little while to get into this story as I was feeling fairly tired when I started to read and I was having trouble concentrating. I soon ‘woke up’ as the saying goes and from then on I found it really difficult to tear my attention away from the story. I became so wrapped up in the story that I found it hard to put the book to one side for any length of time. I was so intrigued by the characters and by the story that I just couldn’t stop reading. At one point the pages were turning that quickly that it was almost as if they were turning themselves. As I worked my way through the story. All too quickly I reached the end of the book and I had to bid a temporary farewell to DI Jack MacIntosh. I soon cheered up when I realised that I had the next two books in the series to catch up on.
‘Seven Days’ is well written but then I thought that about ‘The Phoenix Project’ too. In MacIntosh, Michelle has created a likeable character, who seems to get on with most people. Michelle certainly knows how to grab your attention from the start and draw you into what proves to be a compelling story. Reading this book was a bit like being on a scary and unpredictable rollercoaster rides with several twists and turns along the way. The story is written from different time perspectives. Most of the story takes place in 2012 with the occasional flashback chapter to describe certain events that happened and which impact on the story in 2012. I found ‘Seven Days’ to be an addictive and fairly fast paced story which kept me guessing and kept my interest throughout.
In short, I really enjoyed reading ‘Seven Days’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Michelle’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 4* out of 5*.
It took me a little while to get into this story as I was feeling fairly tired when I started to read and I was having trouble concentrating. I soon ‘woke up’ as the saying goes and from then on I found it really difficult to tear my attention away from the story. I became so wrapped up in the story that I found it hard to put the book to one side for any length of time. I was so intrigued by the characters and by the story that I just couldn’t stop reading. At one point the pages were turning that quickly that it was almost as if they were turning themselves. As I worked my way through the story. All too quickly I reached the end of the book and I had to bid a temporary farewell to DI Jack MacIntosh. I soon cheered up when I realised that I had the next two books in the series to catch up on.
‘Seven Days’ is well written but then I thought that about ‘The Phoenix Project’ too. In MacIntosh, Michelle has created a likeable character, who seems to get on with most people. Michelle certainly knows how to grab your attention from the start and draw you into what proves to be a compelling story. Reading this book was a bit like being on a scary and unpredictable rollercoaster rides with several twists and turns along the way. The story is written from different time perspectives. Most of the story takes place in 2012 with the occasional flashback chapter to describe certain events that happened and which impact on the story in 2012. I found ‘Seven Days’ to be an addictive and fairly fast paced story which kept me guessing and kept my interest throughout.
In short, I really enjoyed reading ‘Seven Days’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Michelle’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 4* out of 5*.
February 23, 2021
Jack is back! I really enjoyed this book. Once again we have more adventures with DI Jack MacIntosh and his team, plus his brother Stuart (Mac) and the new DS Carmichael, who’s not exactly making himself very popular. A lot less complicated than the first book in the series – The Phoenix Project – there is a cross-over and while it helps to have read the first book, it isn’t totally necessary.
Isabel Faraday was the subject of the first novel, but we see her now, some four years later, owning a coffee shop in the Kings Road (the rent and rates must be ridiculously expensive – she’ll need to sell a lot of cappuccinos) with an art studio at the back which she rents out. Now as a bit of a budding artist I’m up for renting an easel in her studio. She even provides the paint (oil and cold wax for me please) and brushes. I could just paint while she keeps me in coffee and pain au raisins. Luxury!
The new book opens with a grisly murder – a body found in the park – and then another one. Both strangled with a ligature. One victim is in her forties, the other just twenty-one. The first victim is wearing only one shoe, but another shoe – a totally different one – lies close by. It’s a clue. If the second victim is wearing the matching shoe and another mismatched shoe lies close by, then there will be a third victim and we have a serial killer on the loose. And only seven days before the opening ceremony of the London Olympics.
The clock is ticking and there appears to be no connection between the victims. Jack and the team are on to it, but can they catch the killer in time? And how many more will die before they do?
There are other characters involved as well, each with their own story, and look out for Dominic, a young man who helps out in the coffee shop. He is ‘on the spectrum’ and keeps a diarised record of everything that happens in detail, every day. Excessive? OCD? But so useful!
I love that this book is part of a series and I am look forward to reading the next in the series. Book three is called The Fifteen and I shall no doubt be reviewing it later in the year.
Isabel Faraday was the subject of the first novel, but we see her now, some four years later, owning a coffee shop in the Kings Road (the rent and rates must be ridiculously expensive – she’ll need to sell a lot of cappuccinos) with an art studio at the back which she rents out. Now as a bit of a budding artist I’m up for renting an easel in her studio. She even provides the paint (oil and cold wax for me please) and brushes. I could just paint while she keeps me in coffee and pain au raisins. Luxury!
The new book opens with a grisly murder – a body found in the park – and then another one. Both strangled with a ligature. One victim is in her forties, the other just twenty-one. The first victim is wearing only one shoe, but another shoe – a totally different one – lies close by. It’s a clue. If the second victim is wearing the matching shoe and another mismatched shoe lies close by, then there will be a third victim and we have a serial killer on the loose. And only seven days before the opening ceremony of the London Olympics.
The clock is ticking and there appears to be no connection between the victims. Jack and the team are on to it, but can they catch the killer in time? And how many more will die before they do?
There are other characters involved as well, each with their own story, and look out for Dominic, a young man who helps out in the coffee shop. He is ‘on the spectrum’ and keeps a diarised record of everything that happens in detail, every day. Excessive? OCD? But so useful!
I love that this book is part of a series and I am look forward to reading the next in the series. Book three is called The Fifteen and I shall no doubt be reviewing it later in the year.
February 27, 2021
Many thanks to Damppebbles Blog Tours and Michelle Kidd for providing me with a digital copy of Seven Days with a request for an honest review.
I have found my new favorite crime series! Michelle Kidd uses the genre to her advantage and writes a story so gripping I couldn’t put it down. Seven Days had so many elements that it was never lacking.
I adored DI Jack MacIntosh. He is the kind of guy I can imagine being friends with. He has many demons, but he cares so deeply about others. I can’t wait to see how his journey continues with hypnotherapy.
I knew very early on that there was a red herring. I guessed the herring’s role right away. But, apart from that, I had no idea who the killer was. I had an inkling part way through but dismissed it as ridiculous. I should have trusted my instincts.
The only thing that bothered me about the book is that I felt that I was missing out. While marketed as a standalone, I would have had a better experience had I read the previous book first.
Seven Days is a great book, and I award it 4 out of 5 stars. I urge anyone who loves a good crime novel to pick this series up. I loved all the side stories that went with the central theme.
I have found my new favorite crime series! Michelle Kidd uses the genre to her advantage and writes a story so gripping I couldn’t put it down. Seven Days had so many elements that it was never lacking.
I adored DI Jack MacIntosh. He is the kind of guy I can imagine being friends with. He has many demons, but he cares so deeply about others. I can’t wait to see how his journey continues with hypnotherapy.
I knew very early on that there was a red herring. I guessed the herring’s role right away. But, apart from that, I had no idea who the killer was. I had an inkling part way through but dismissed it as ridiculous. I should have trusted my instincts.
The only thing that bothered me about the book is that I felt that I was missing out. While marketed as a standalone, I would have had a better experience had I read the previous book first.
Seven Days is a great book, and I award it 4 out of 5 stars. I urge anyone who loves a good crime novel to pick this series up. I loved all the side stories that went with the central theme.
May 31, 2021
For me it was a solid police procedural, well detailed with the author Michelle Kidd giving me personal details and side-stories about the characters.
Women, apparently unconnected to each other, were getting killed. And it was up to DI Jack Macintosh to get to the truth. I hadn’t read book 1 so some nuances of the characters were lost on me. But I did get enough to enjoy the story.
What captured my attention was how the police were left stumped and a criminal profiling done on the killer led to one main conclusion which intrigued me. The killer was forensically aware.
With multiple POV, one being of the killer, every facet of the case was dealt with. For me, the book was slightly on the longer side, and I wanted more of thrill. Nonetheless, it picked up speed as the team grew on me.
When the body count started increasing, my heart too picked up speed. Shockers came in down and low. Secrets hidden in the past made its way insidiously into the present, with new connections.
The author managed to have a few tricks up her sleeve at the end too. An entertaining read.
Women, apparently unconnected to each other, were getting killed. And it was up to DI Jack Macintosh to get to the truth. I hadn’t read book 1 so some nuances of the characters were lost on me. But I did get enough to enjoy the story.
What captured my attention was how the police were left stumped and a criminal profiling done on the killer led to one main conclusion which intrigued me. The killer was forensically aware.
With multiple POV, one being of the killer, every facet of the case was dealt with. For me, the book was slightly on the longer side, and I wanted more of thrill. Nonetheless, it picked up speed as the team grew on me.
When the body count started increasing, my heart too picked up speed. Shockers came in down and low. Secrets hidden in the past made its way insidiously into the present, with new connections.
The author managed to have a few tricks up her sleeve at the end too. An entertaining read.
January 26, 2021
Although this is the second book in the Macintosh series it can be read as a standalone book.
It’s London in 2012 and the Olympics is about to start just as a serial killer begins a rampage.
It’s down to DI Jack Macintosh and his team to stop this spree and catch the person responsible for these deaths and the Chief has given him just seven days to solve the case.
The killer leaves the victim wearing one shoe with another shoe placed at the scene signalling the next victim.
The story moves between the present day, the investigation, the killer’s perspective and his victims and some flashback scenes which gives the reader more insight to quite a few characters.
It’s quite fast paced and the tension ramps up in the latter chapters.
Are the shoes a red herring?
Who is DS Carmichael?
A really enjoyable read with a few twists to keep you on your toes. And it leaves it open for future books.
It’s London in 2012 and the Olympics is about to start just as a serial killer begins a rampage.
It’s down to DI Jack Macintosh and his team to stop this spree and catch the person responsible for these deaths and the Chief has given him just seven days to solve the case.
The killer leaves the victim wearing one shoe with another shoe placed at the scene signalling the next victim.
The story moves between the present day, the investigation, the killer’s perspective and his victims and some flashback scenes which gives the reader more insight to quite a few characters.
It’s quite fast paced and the tension ramps up in the latter chapters.
Are the shoes a red herring?
Who is DS Carmichael?
A really enjoyable read with a few twists to keep you on your toes. And it leaves it open for future books.
February 26, 2021
My god, what a book!! I thought I loved the first book in this series, but Seven Days is on a whole new level. An absolutely incredible story which was suspenseful, terrifying and so very addictive. It was impossible not to love every single page!
I was completely absorbed in this book from beginning to end and was constantly amazed by just how perfectly the author has constructed each event. The story is long, it’s detailed and very heavy at times, but it’s been written with such immense care and clarity that it was so positively overwhelming. With a few curveballs here and there and so much more to learn about the characters I loved from The Phoenix Project, this one was everything I look for in a book and more. An AMAZING read!
You can read my full review over on my blog: https://aquintillionwords.com/2021/02...
I was completely absorbed in this book from beginning to end and was constantly amazed by just how perfectly the author has constructed each event. The story is long, it’s detailed and very heavy at times, but it’s been written with such immense care and clarity that it was so positively overwhelming. With a few curveballs here and there and so much more to learn about the characters I loved from The Phoenix Project, this one was everything I look for in a book and more. An AMAZING read!
You can read my full review over on my blog: https://aquintillionwords.com/2021/02...
August 13, 2021
This book has left me divided. After loving the previous book I jumped in head first to this one. This is where I'm divided, because the first 50% was too slow for me. I didn't connect to the characters. I was waiting for something to happen with Mac and Isabel after the previous book. However, once I got passed that 50%, the story concentrated more on the crimes being committed, and that's why I read these books, and I enjoyed the second half. Isobel must be the most unlucky person ever.
So while I didn't like the first half of the book the second half made up for my weeks invested in this story.
So while I didn't like the first half of the book the second half made up for my weeks invested in this story.
March 18, 2025
In the gripping mystery thriller "Seven Days to Die: DI Jack MacIntosh Mysteries, Book 1" by Michelle Kidd, the city of London becomes the stage for a chilling series of murders, just days before the 2012 Olympics. The book opens with a macabre discovery in Hyde Park—a young woman found strangled, disturbingly missing one of her white sneakers. Nearby, Detective Jack MacIntosh finds a black stiletto, an ominous clue that doesn’t belong to the victim. As Jack delves into the investigation, another body surfaces in Green Park, this time wearing the matching stiletto. The pattern continues. With just seven days to unravel the mystery before the eyes of the world focus on London, Jack faces a race against time to catch a sadistic killer who leaves behind a perplexing trail of mismatched footwear.
Michelle Kidd masterfully unravels the narrative through alternating timelines of 1998 and 2012, weaving a complex tapestry of past and present that keeps readers on edge. The story is told from multiple perspectives, including those of DI Jack MacIntosh, an enigmatic key character named Isabel, and the murderer themselves. This multifaceted storytelling approach adds depth to the narrative, allowing readers to piece together the mystery from different angles.
Michelle Kidd skillfully employs bolded text to emphasize changes in date, time, and place, ensuring that readers can easily follow the timeline transitions. This technique enhances clarity and keeps readers informed about scene changes, allowing them to understand which characters' perspectives are being presented and where the investigation was led. However, the frequency of these bolded updates, which occur not only at the beginning of each chapter but throughout the narrative, can be somewhat overwhelming, particularly during the intense beginnings of the story. While this method is an effective literary strategy that helps indicate flashbacks, it can feel distracting as readers try to keep up with the rapid shifts in time and perspective.
The novel's cast of characters is both diverse and richly developed, each possessing a unique voice that draws readers into their world. Detective Jack MacIntosh is a compelling protagonist whose determination and wit make him a figure to root for as he strives to bring justice to the victims. His team of detectives contributes to a dynamic ensemble that adds layers to the investigation. As the body count rises, the tension escalates, and the reader is drawn into a high-stakes game of cat-and-mouse, where every suspect is a potential threat, and each clue could either lead to a breakthrough or a dead end.
One of the most engaging aspects of Michelle Kidd’s novel is its ability to mislead and surprise. Just when readers think they have pieced together the identity of the killer, a new twist shatters their assumptions. The plot is filled with red herrings and unexpected turns that keep the audience guessing until the very end. Michelle Kidd skillfully constructs a narrative that challenges even the most seasoned mystery aficionados, ensuring that the final revelation is both satisfying and shocking. This book sets a promising foundation for the DI Jack MacIntosh Mysteries series, leaving readers eager for more.
For those who thrive on suspense and intricate plotlines, "Seven Days to Die" offers a thrilling journey into the dark corners of human nature and the relentless pursuit of justice. As the clock ticks down to the Olympic Games, the pressure mounts, and with each passing day, the stakes become higher. Will Detective Jack MacIntosh outsmart the killer before the city is thrust into chaos? Dive into this electrifying mystery to discover whether justice will prevail—or if the killer’s twisted game will claim another victim.
Book Rating:
Originality: 4.75/5.0
Structure: 4.25/5.0
Pacing: 4.5/5.0
Dialogue: 5.0/5.0
Personal Enjoyment: 4.5/5.0
Cover Design: 4.25/5.0 (Not averaged in the overall rating.)
Overall Rating: 4.6/5.0 (Rating will be rounded up due to platforms not allowing partial ratings.)
Michelle Kidd masterfully unravels the narrative through alternating timelines of 1998 and 2012, weaving a complex tapestry of past and present that keeps readers on edge. The story is told from multiple perspectives, including those of DI Jack MacIntosh, an enigmatic key character named Isabel, and the murderer themselves. This multifaceted storytelling approach adds depth to the narrative, allowing readers to piece together the mystery from different angles.
Michelle Kidd skillfully employs bolded text to emphasize changes in date, time, and place, ensuring that readers can easily follow the timeline transitions. This technique enhances clarity and keeps readers informed about scene changes, allowing them to understand which characters' perspectives are being presented and where the investigation was led. However, the frequency of these bolded updates, which occur not only at the beginning of each chapter but throughout the narrative, can be somewhat overwhelming, particularly during the intense beginnings of the story. While this method is an effective literary strategy that helps indicate flashbacks, it can feel distracting as readers try to keep up with the rapid shifts in time and perspective.
The novel's cast of characters is both diverse and richly developed, each possessing a unique voice that draws readers into their world. Detective Jack MacIntosh is a compelling protagonist whose determination and wit make him a figure to root for as he strives to bring justice to the victims. His team of detectives contributes to a dynamic ensemble that adds layers to the investigation. As the body count rises, the tension escalates, and the reader is drawn into a high-stakes game of cat-and-mouse, where every suspect is a potential threat, and each clue could either lead to a breakthrough or a dead end.
One of the most engaging aspects of Michelle Kidd’s novel is its ability to mislead and surprise. Just when readers think they have pieced together the identity of the killer, a new twist shatters their assumptions. The plot is filled with red herrings and unexpected turns that keep the audience guessing until the very end. Michelle Kidd skillfully constructs a narrative that challenges even the most seasoned mystery aficionados, ensuring that the final revelation is both satisfying and shocking. This book sets a promising foundation for the DI Jack MacIntosh Mysteries series, leaving readers eager for more.
For those who thrive on suspense and intricate plotlines, "Seven Days to Die" offers a thrilling journey into the dark corners of human nature and the relentless pursuit of justice. As the clock ticks down to the Olympic Games, the pressure mounts, and with each passing day, the stakes become higher. Will Detective Jack MacIntosh outsmart the killer before the city is thrust into chaos? Dive into this electrifying mystery to discover whether justice will prevail—or if the killer’s twisted game will claim another victim.
Book Rating:
Originality: 4.75/5.0
Structure: 4.25/5.0
Pacing: 4.5/5.0
Dialogue: 5.0/5.0
Personal Enjoyment: 4.5/5.0
Cover Design: 4.25/5.0 (Not averaged in the overall rating.)
Overall Rating: 4.6/5.0 (Rating will be rounded up due to platforms not allowing partial ratings.)
January 14, 2023
Seven Days to Die is the first book in the new series featuring Detective Jack Macintosh.
A woman has been found strangled in a park in London with one shoe on and another nearby, oddly it does not match the shoe the victim is wearing. The shoe matches a previous murder indicating that newly found shoe will match another murder victim yet to be found. Jack realizes that there may be a serial killer on the loose. Jack will be pressured to find the killer before the Olympics begin in seven days.
This story has some great characters to help with the community in the story. Isabel owns a coffee shop with pastries, and an art studio in the back to offset the cost of the rent. Fantastic idea and sounds like something we all might like to try.
Jack is a single man and due to his past is fine with staying single. When he was four, he found his mother after she committed suicide, his younger brother was two and has no real memories of his mother. But they both are struggling with the past interfering with the present. Jack is undergoing therapy to try to understand why he feels the way he does.
Most of the characters have had huge losses in their past. Some are not dealing with them well which adds to down to earth characters being much more interesting.
The only negative is a cliff hanger type of ending. We know it is going to be a series, so no reason to have an ending that leads to the next book. However, the cliffhanger ending is not one that leaves you hanging in order to resolve the first book.
I did like this book and am looking forward to reading the next one. Even with its 436 pages the chapters are short, it actually is a pretty fast read. Obviously, there are several twists and turns that take the investigation the wrong direction, but I wrongly suspected these directions might be the right way only to realize I had gone down the path the writer intended. It was an entertaining but hard to put down read.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
A woman has been found strangled in a park in London with one shoe on and another nearby, oddly it does not match the shoe the victim is wearing. The shoe matches a previous murder indicating that newly found shoe will match another murder victim yet to be found. Jack realizes that there may be a serial killer on the loose. Jack will be pressured to find the killer before the Olympics begin in seven days.
This story has some great characters to help with the community in the story. Isabel owns a coffee shop with pastries, and an art studio in the back to offset the cost of the rent. Fantastic idea and sounds like something we all might like to try.
Jack is a single man and due to his past is fine with staying single. When he was four, he found his mother after she committed suicide, his younger brother was two and has no real memories of his mother. But they both are struggling with the past interfering with the present. Jack is undergoing therapy to try to understand why he feels the way he does.
Most of the characters have had huge losses in their past. Some are not dealing with them well which adds to down to earth characters being much more interesting.
The only negative is a cliff hanger type of ending. We know it is going to be a series, so no reason to have an ending that leads to the next book. However, the cliffhanger ending is not one that leaves you hanging in order to resolve the first book.
I did like this book and am looking forward to reading the next one. Even with its 436 pages the chapters are short, it actually is a pretty fast read. Obviously, there are several twists and turns that take the investigation the wrong direction, but I wrongly suspected these directions might be the right way only to realize I had gone down the path the writer intended. It was an entertaining but hard to put down read.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
December 22, 2022
Seven Days to Die by Michelle Kidd Detective Inspector Jack MacIntosh Mysteries Book 1 is a slow-burn read, but the story was weaved well, and there was so much anticipation on what was going to happen, who was involved, and who would be the next victim. There were so many suspects! It was fun to try to figure out all the aspects and red herrings.
It was a gripping crime thriller with a very good twist. There were so many suspects to choose from, and I kept going back and forth on who could be involved.
I really liked this book and anticipated what would happen next in the story. I enjoyed getting to know the characters, especially Jack MacIntosh. He really liked some of the old-school ways, such as his pinboard rather than the electronic whiteboard. I can identify with that sentiment as I love my good old paper and pencil for lists and calendars.
I also liked DS Cooper and DI Cassidy. They are very well-rounded characters. Something was definitely up with DS Carmichael, so I was anticipating what it was and how it would be revealed.
The story is told in alternating timelines going back to 1998 and then continues in 2012, which worked well because each scene builds on the other to show why something is happening to the characters or what is happening in the story.
The book had great atmospheric descriptions (i.e., the howling wind...was able to rush inside, unguarded and unchallenged. Angry raindrops pelted against the glass, accompanied by the occasional flash of lightning and deep rumble of thunder). Made you feel like you were right inside the scene and story.
I will definitely read more from this author and especially the Jack MacIntosh series. I hope there will be more, please! I would rate this a 4.5 out of 5 stars (rounded to 5).
#SEVENDAYSTODIE #NetGalley @JoffeBooks @AuthorKidd
It was a gripping crime thriller with a very good twist. There were so many suspects to choose from, and I kept going back and forth on who could be involved.
I really liked this book and anticipated what would happen next in the story. I enjoyed getting to know the characters, especially Jack MacIntosh. He really liked some of the old-school ways, such as his pinboard rather than the electronic whiteboard. I can identify with that sentiment as I love my good old paper and pencil for lists and calendars.
I also liked DS Cooper and DI Cassidy. They are very well-rounded characters. Something was definitely up with DS Carmichael, so I was anticipating what it was and how it would be revealed.
The story is told in alternating timelines going back to 1998 and then continues in 2012, which worked well because each scene builds on the other to show why something is happening to the characters or what is happening in the story.
The book had great atmospheric descriptions (i.e., the howling wind...was able to rush inside, unguarded and unchallenged. Angry raindrops pelted against the glass, accompanied by the occasional flash of lightning and deep rumble of thunder). Made you feel like you were right inside the scene and story.
I will definitely read more from this author and especially the Jack MacIntosh series. I hope there will be more, please! I would rate this a 4.5 out of 5 stars (rounded to 5).
#SEVENDAYSTODIE #NetGalley @JoffeBooks @AuthorKidd
February 13, 2023
Seven Days to Die by Michelle Kidd is the second book in the DI Jack MacIntosh series and this was the fist book I had read within series and I found it very easy to get into. I loved it especially as it kept me guessing till the end and it had great twist and turns throughout. The characters were excellent and I loved the main character DI Jack MacIntosh
When a young woman is found strangled in Hyde Park.in London and she is only wearing only one shoe.
Detective Jack MacIntosh finds another black stiletto, with a diamante buckle glinting in the early morning sun. But this shoes doesn’t belong to this victim.
Then, two days later, another young woman is found strangled to death in nearby Green Park. Wearing just one shoe which is the matching stiletto found by the first victim in Hyde Park. But, hidden in the long grass beside the body, the police uncover a low-heeled court shoe.
Who does this shoe belong to?
There is a brutal killer who strangles young women, always leaves their bodies strewn across famous London’s parks.
This is a killer who leaves his next victim’s shoe beside the body of his last one. Detective Jack MacIntosh has seven days to find the truth.
The clock is ticking and Detective Jack MacIntosh and his team have to find the owner of the court shoe before it’s far, far too late.
At the same time, Detective Jack MacIntosh is fighting his own demons. Demons which rise up from the past and threaten to cloud his judgement just when he needs it most.
Will Detective Jack MacIntosh and his team catch this killer and make the parks in the London area safe again?
This book was Excellent and I highly recommend Seven days to Die.
When a young woman is found strangled in Hyde Park.in London and she is only wearing only one shoe.
Detective Jack MacIntosh finds another black stiletto, with a diamante buckle glinting in the early morning sun. But this shoes doesn’t belong to this victim.
Then, two days later, another young woman is found strangled to death in nearby Green Park. Wearing just one shoe which is the matching stiletto found by the first victim in Hyde Park. But, hidden in the long grass beside the body, the police uncover a low-heeled court shoe.
Who does this shoe belong to?
There is a brutal killer who strangles young women, always leaves their bodies strewn across famous London’s parks.
This is a killer who leaves his next victim’s shoe beside the body of his last one. Detective Jack MacIntosh has seven days to find the truth.
The clock is ticking and Detective Jack MacIntosh and his team have to find the owner of the court shoe before it’s far, far too late.
At the same time, Detective Jack MacIntosh is fighting his own demons. Demons which rise up from the past and threaten to cloud his judgement just when he needs it most.
Will Detective Jack MacIntosh and his team catch this killer and make the parks in the London area safe again?
This book was Excellent and I highly recommend Seven days to Die.
January 26, 2024
Downloaded this after spotting it on my kindle recommended page. I believe it is the first of the series, and I’m still looking for a good series to dive into, so I gave it a go.
The story is pretty slow paced for a police investigation novel. It follows a Detective Inspector, Jack, who is investigating a recent string of murders that all seem to be connected. As usual with these stories, the detectives are on a limited time frame to catch the suspect before he kills anyone else. The culprit is fairly predictable, however, I wasn’t expecting his capture to unfold the way it did.
The writing in this novel was really easy to follow, and I found the policing aspects of it to be very believable. It’s refreshing to not read stories about corrupt detectives doing shady things to get a conviction. As I already said, the pacing was slow which made the book feel long, but I didn’t find any parts to be repetitive or unnecessary. This would probably be a great read for a week-long holiday, or a long plane journey.
The cons:
The first thing I noticed in this novel that stood out to me: so many quotes about fingers, hands and nails. I thought this MUST have something to do with how we identify the killer, because almost everyone was introduced with a description of their “perfectly manicured” hands, but it wasn’t! I’d love to know what the reason behind that was! Or maybe it’s just a quirk of the author?
There were also some character flaws. The novel is set in 2012, and although the main character is portrayed as somewhat of a technophobe, I found it hard to believe a met detective would be surprised to learn of dating sites. They had been going for years at that point. This aspect of his character was pushed a lot and I just didn’t think it did the story justice, at times.
Lastly, the book jumps around between perspectives and dates which can be difficult to follow at times unless you’re extremely observant and remember which date you were last reading for that particular character. There were times I started reading a chapter and had to go back to determine which part of the story it was for it to make sense.
Overall, I’m giving it 4 stars and put most of these flaws down to it being the first in the series. I have high hopes for the second one :-)
The story is pretty slow paced for a police investigation novel. It follows a Detective Inspector, Jack, who is investigating a recent string of murders that all seem to be connected. As usual with these stories, the detectives are on a limited time frame to catch the suspect before he kills anyone else. The culprit is fairly predictable, however, I wasn’t expecting his capture to unfold the way it did.
The writing in this novel was really easy to follow, and I found the policing aspects of it to be very believable. It’s refreshing to not read stories about corrupt detectives doing shady things to get a conviction. As I already said, the pacing was slow which made the book feel long, but I didn’t find any parts to be repetitive or unnecessary. This would probably be a great read for a week-long holiday, or a long plane journey.
The cons:
The first thing I noticed in this novel that stood out to me: so many quotes about fingers, hands and nails. I thought this MUST have something to do with how we identify the killer, because almost everyone was introduced with a description of their “perfectly manicured” hands, but it wasn’t! I’d love to know what the reason behind that was! Or maybe it’s just a quirk of the author?
There were also some character flaws. The novel is set in 2012, and although the main character is portrayed as somewhat of a technophobe, I found it hard to believe a met detective would be surprised to learn of dating sites. They had been going for years at that point. This aspect of his character was pushed a lot and I just didn’t think it did the story justice, at times.
Lastly, the book jumps around between perspectives and dates which can be difficult to follow at times unless you’re extremely observant and remember which date you were last reading for that particular character. There were times I started reading a chapter and had to go back to determine which part of the story it was for it to make sense.
Overall, I’m giving it 4 stars and put most of these flaws down to it being the first in the series. I have high hopes for the second one :-)
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