What do you think?
DI Jack Dawes #3
The Colour of Death
Please note this was originally published as The Colour of Death
Two murdered women, twelve days till Christmas
DI Jack Dawes is called into investigating the death of a woman found with her throat slit on a snowy London street, twelve days before Christmas. A man, seen standing over the body, has yet to be discovered.
Then Jack is sent away to shed light on a grisly death on the Shetland Islands. The corpse of another young woman lies sprawled underneath the tower of secluded Doomdochry Castle. It looks like suicide, but DI Dawes suspects foul play.
What secrets does the castle hold?
The sinister MacAlister family will do everything it can to bar Jack from uncovering the truth. As he battles to crack the clan, Jack confronts an intelligence equal to his own — in a ruthless murderer set to strike again.
Will Jack make the crucial link between the two murders in time to stop the brutality?
Can Dawes turn the tides of violence?
Two murdered women, twelve days till Christmas
DI Jack Dawes is called into investigating the death of a woman found with her throat slit on a snowy London street, twelve days before Christmas. A man, seen standing over the body, has yet to be discovered.
Then Jack is sent away to shed light on a grisly death on the Shetland Islands. The corpse of another young woman lies sprawled underneath the tower of secluded Doomdochry Castle. It looks like suicide, but DI Dawes suspects foul play.
What secrets does the castle hold?
The sinister MacAlister family will do everything it can to bar Jack from uncovering the truth. As he battles to crack the clan, Jack confronts an intelligence equal to his own — in a ruthless murderer set to strike again.
Will Jack make the crucial link between the two murders in time to stop the brutality?
Can Dawes turn the tides of violence?
Paperback
First published September 1, 2011
About the author
Frances Lloyd
46 books51 followersFrances Lloyd was born in Essex but spent a nomadic childhood being carted between RAF stations until mercifully, she was allowed a crack at a proper education in Cheltenham, studying English and Classics. As an adult, she eventually fetched up in the south west of England but by then, had become something of a wandering minstrel with no physical or spiritual roots apart from work.
Frances has always been a writer. The job that paid the mortgage was in government communications, writing speeches and other parliamentary material for some well-known politicians.
Frances has always been a writer. The job that paid the mortgage was in government communications, writing speeches and other parliamentary material for some well-known politicians.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
April 21, 2017
DI Jack Dawes is investigating the murder of a prostitute. But before he can find the killer, his supervisor sends him to Scotland to help them out with their own possible murder case as most of their law enforcement is out sick with the flu.
As of right now, they are saying it looks like suicide .. he was high on drugs and fell from the roof of a castle tower. She was also pregnant and unmarried.
Every person who lives or works in or about the castle is a prime suspect ,,, especially as it seems they all lie and have secrets they don't want to see the light of day.
Throw in a ghost story about another woman who went flying off the tower in the 1400s and Dawes has his hands full.
And just when he's wrapping it up and calling it a suicide ... another body is found.
I can't say this was highly suspenseful, but it was a bit mysterious. I didn't buy the ghost story, though.
There are lots of suspects and they all had a reason to want this young lady dead ... or knew something they weren't telling. A few good characters, a few sneaky characters lead Dawson on a merry chase.
Many thanks to the author / Endeavour Press / Netgalley for the digital copy of this book. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
As of right now, they are saying it looks like suicide .. he was high on drugs and fell from the roof of a castle tower. She was also pregnant and unmarried.
Every person who lives or works in or about the castle is a prime suspect ,,, especially as it seems they all lie and have secrets they don't want to see the light of day.
Throw in a ghost story about another woman who went flying off the tower in the 1400s and Dawes has his hands full.
And just when he's wrapping it up and calling it a suicide ... another body is found.
I can't say this was highly suspenseful, but it was a bit mysterious. I didn't buy the ghost story, though.
There are lots of suspects and they all had a reason to want this young lady dead ... or knew something they weren't telling. A few good characters, a few sneaky characters lead Dawson on a merry chase.
Many thanks to the author / Endeavour Press / Netgalley for the digital copy of this book. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
October 31, 2019
Sorry but it’s pathetic.
I’ve read the two previous books in this series and quite frankly the story is so far fetched as to be totally ridiculous. D. I. “Jack” Dawes and
D. S. “Bugsy” Malone are seconded ten days before Christmas to a mouldering castle on the Shetland Island of Unst. All because a bumbling superior officer is feeling threatened by Dawes superior ability....and at the beginning of a murder enquiry. Well.....really....that is the first stretch of the imagination.
And so in appalling and dangerous conditions our erstwhile detectives are helicoptered to Doomdochry Castle, conveniently, by the husband of the local Inverness Chief Superintendent......second stretch of the imagination.
Meanwhile in London, Dawes’ replacement SIO in the murder investigation of a local prostitute and days later, a known small time criminal, known to the prostitute, is none other than D. I. Donald “Ducky” Drake......not nicknamed Ducky because his surname is Drake, but because he could always be relied on to duck work.......to reach the rank of D. I. and be so lazy and incompetent.....well, third stretch of the imagination.
For heaven’s sake Francis Lloyd, use some REAL imagination and give people REAL names instead of filling your stories with every worn out sobriquet you can think of. Try something original, and stop trying to out do Midsommer Murders and other lightweight potboilers.
Plus.....at the conclusion to the previous book “Bluebell Murders” a member of the team based in Kings Richington, D. C. Pinkney was shot and in hospital recovering. Suddenly the M.I.T. Is based in Scotland Yard in this book and there is only a brief and fleeting reference to “a young constable” that Malone felt a duty of care toward, and who had recovered. There is no continuity of the story line,and unfinished business from book to book. The entire cast of characters has moved from the “des res” area of upmarket Kings Richington and into south London around Elephant and Castle.....oh really?? And then on to the furthest flung stretch of Scotland.....well how far must our credulity stretch?
And I might also point out to the author that using less commonly used words or terms does nothing to enhance the readability of a book, but just seems to be the author saying “I know this word!”.........and common usage for the word garderobe that had Melissa McAlistar using for a bathroom, is actually a latrine that was usually built on the exterior wall of a castle and was open at the bottom so that the night soil could be removed by servants, or left to decay of its own natural process....not a bathroom and certainly not in a freezing Scottish castle.
I’ve read the two previous books in this series and quite frankly the story is so far fetched as to be totally ridiculous. D. I. “Jack” Dawes and
D. S. “Bugsy” Malone are seconded ten days before Christmas to a mouldering castle on the Shetland Island of Unst. All because a bumbling superior officer is feeling threatened by Dawes superior ability....and at the beginning of a murder enquiry. Well.....really....that is the first stretch of the imagination.
And so in appalling and dangerous conditions our erstwhile detectives are helicoptered to Doomdochry Castle, conveniently, by the husband of the local Inverness Chief Superintendent......second stretch of the imagination.
Meanwhile in London, Dawes’ replacement SIO in the murder investigation of a local prostitute and days later, a known small time criminal, known to the prostitute, is none other than D. I. Donald “Ducky” Drake......not nicknamed Ducky because his surname is Drake, but because he could always be relied on to duck work.......to reach the rank of D. I. and be so lazy and incompetent.....well, third stretch of the imagination.
For heaven’s sake Francis Lloyd, use some REAL imagination and give people REAL names instead of filling your stories with every worn out sobriquet you can think of. Try something original, and stop trying to out do Midsommer Murders and other lightweight potboilers.
Plus.....at the conclusion to the previous book “Bluebell Murders” a member of the team based in Kings Richington, D. C. Pinkney was shot and in hospital recovering. Suddenly the M.I.T. Is based in Scotland Yard in this book and there is only a brief and fleeting reference to “a young constable” that Malone felt a duty of care toward, and who had recovered. There is no continuity of the story line,and unfinished business from book to book. The entire cast of characters has moved from the “des res” area of upmarket Kings Richington and into south London around Elephant and Castle.....oh really?? And then on to the furthest flung stretch of Scotland.....well how far must our credulity stretch?
And I might also point out to the author that using less commonly used words or terms does nothing to enhance the readability of a book, but just seems to be the author saying “I know this word!”.........and common usage for the word garderobe that had Melissa McAlistar using for a bathroom, is actually a latrine that was usually built on the exterior wall of a castle and was open at the bottom so that the night soil could be removed by servants, or left to decay of its own natural process....not a bathroom and certainly not in a freezing Scottish castle.
August 5, 2017
4 stars
Our book opens with the strangulation murder of Lady Jean by her husband the Earl of Doomdochry, Alistair MacAlister in December of 1490. He stashes the top half of her body in a ruined tower bedchamber for there is only room for half of her under the rotting floorboards. The rest of her he buried in the family graveyard.
We speed ahead through the centuries where another murder in taking place at Doomdochry Castle in 2010.
DI Jack Dawes and DS Michael “Bugsy” Malone are busy investigating the case of a viciously murdered prostitute, along with the rest of his team. Their only suspect is a local n’er-do well named Lenny Lennox who was standing over the body with the murder weapon in his hand. He is, however, very unlikely to have committed the murder. However, his career-driven boss sends him to the Shetland Islands to investigate a case at Doomdochry Castle to get him out of the way when the big bosses show up. He doesn’t want DI Dawes and DS Malone to outshine him in front of his superiors.
It is rumored by some that the castle is haunted.
Meanwhile, their non-suspect Lenny in the London prostitute case has gotten himself murdered. DI Drake, who doesn’t ever do more than absolutely necessary calls it a suicide and closes the case. However, since his tongue was cut out, DI Dawes has his doubts.
After two more murders are committed at Doomdochry, the heat in our story is turned up. Corrie, Jack’s wife gets involved (of course), and things look bad for her. The action speeds up and the denouement is thrilling. I enjoyed this book. And there wasn’t that much about ghosts in the book. There is even an explanation for some of the occurrences. DI Dawes and DS Malone pull it all together in this exciting book.
I like the way DI Dawes and his sidekick, DS Malone interact. DI Dawes’ relationship with his wife Corrie is a joy to behold as well. They get along famously and Corrie’s catering business keeps her busy and entertained. This book is well written and plotted.
I want to thank Endeavour Press for forwarding this book to me so that I can read and enjoy it.
Our book opens with the strangulation murder of Lady Jean by her husband the Earl of Doomdochry, Alistair MacAlister in December of 1490. He stashes the top half of her body in a ruined tower bedchamber for there is only room for half of her under the rotting floorboards. The rest of her he buried in the family graveyard.
We speed ahead through the centuries where another murder in taking place at Doomdochry Castle in 2010.
DI Jack Dawes and DS Michael “Bugsy” Malone are busy investigating the case of a viciously murdered prostitute, along with the rest of his team. Their only suspect is a local n’er-do well named Lenny Lennox who was standing over the body with the murder weapon in his hand. He is, however, very unlikely to have committed the murder. However, his career-driven boss sends him to the Shetland Islands to investigate a case at Doomdochry Castle to get him out of the way when the big bosses show up. He doesn’t want DI Dawes and DS Malone to outshine him in front of his superiors.
It is rumored by some that the castle is haunted.
Meanwhile, their non-suspect Lenny in the London prostitute case has gotten himself murdered. DI Drake, who doesn’t ever do more than absolutely necessary calls it a suicide and closes the case. However, since his tongue was cut out, DI Dawes has his doubts.
After two more murders are committed at Doomdochry, the heat in our story is turned up. Corrie, Jack’s wife gets involved (of course), and things look bad for her. The action speeds up and the denouement is thrilling. I enjoyed this book. And there wasn’t that much about ghosts in the book. There is even an explanation for some of the occurrences. DI Dawes and DS Malone pull it all together in this exciting book.
I like the way DI Dawes and his sidekick, DS Malone interact. DI Dawes’ relationship with his wife Corrie is a joy to behold as well. They get along famously and Corrie’s catering business keeps her busy and entertained. This book is well written and plotted.
I want to thank Endeavour Press for forwarding this book to me so that I can read and enjoy it.
June 9, 2024
3.5 stars
Looks like >Midsomer is back on the menu, boys! *cue the feeding frenzy* 🤣
I mean... I liked this book - perhaps on some points more than the first two - because it managed to keep the grimness and levity alive all the way through-out, and on a equal level. It didn't fluctuate like in the first book, but it also wasn't as serious as the second book.
I liked the more serious tone of the second book, but this worked well too. I've still rounded my rating down rather than up though, because... Well, the mystery itself wasn't all that appealing. The setting was the real star of the show in this one - and the utterly weird and over-the-top character gallery.
The only real "problem" I found with this instalment was the fact that the narrator actually spoiled the murderer(s) by doing their distinctive voices and making them quite easy to recognise in the chapters where they should have stayed anonymous. Oops? 😆
Well... I still enjoyed it. 😏
As far as mysteries goes: This is a pleasant listen. I will most likely return for book 4 pretty soon.
Looks like >Midsomer is back on the menu, boys! *cue the feeding frenzy* 🤣
I mean... I liked this book - perhaps on some points more than the first two - because it managed to keep the grimness and levity alive all the way through-out, and on a equal level. It didn't fluctuate like in the first book, but it also wasn't as serious as the second book.
I liked the more serious tone of the second book, but this worked well too. I've still rounded my rating down rather than up though, because... Well, the mystery itself wasn't all that appealing. The setting was the real star of the show in this one - and the utterly weird and over-the-top character gallery.
The only real "problem" I found with this instalment was the fact that the narrator actually spoiled the murderer(s) by doing their distinctive voices and making them quite easy to recognise in the chapters where they should have stayed anonymous. Oops? 😆
Well... I still enjoyed it. 😏
As far as mysteries goes: This is a pleasant listen. I will most likely return for book 4 pretty soon.
March 14, 2023
3.5 stars
The is the third book in the series, I’ve read all three. I read on kindle and alternated with listening to it on audible.
The narrator was good and the extra info at the end about real events the story was inspired by, was interesting.
I enjoy the stories and the characters, but there’s something just a bit old fashioned about the writing. That’s not a bad thing. It’s straight forward narrative story-telling. No flash backs or multiple timelines. So a relaxing reading experience with quite good mysteries.
I will keep reading this series.
The is the third book in the series, I’ve read all three. I read on kindle and alternated with listening to it on audible.
The narrator was good and the extra info at the end about real events the story was inspired by, was interesting.
I enjoy the stories and the characters, but there’s something just a bit old fashioned about the writing. That’s not a bad thing. It’s straight forward narrative story-telling. No flash backs or multiple timelines. So a relaxing reading experience with quite good mysteries.
I will keep reading this series.
November 10, 2019
Disappointing
Felt the book was lightweight and creamed in places, where it was unbelievable. Would not recommend it , have read better
Felt the book was lightweight and creamed in places, where it was unbelievable. Would not recommend it , have read better
February 18, 2020
Vikings ? On shetland
An entertaining light read ideal for a train journey or quiet evening in.this is the third book in the series i have read
An entertaining light read ideal for a train journey or quiet evening in.this is the third book in the series i have read
January 13, 2021
Third book in the series and I've had enough
The Shetland Killer book title attracted me to this writer as I have have a fascination with Shetland having read many other books set there. I also visited the beautiful islands a couple of years ago! As this was the third in the series of Jack and Corrie Cases stories I read The Greek Island Killer and The Bluebell Killer first to get to know the characters.
By the time I was ready to read the third book I had decided to buy an audible narration. This was a big mistake. Edward Mitchell is simply dreadful! His reading voice is like listening to the head boy at a snobby private school doing a speech on parents day! Much of the time his intonation is incorrect for the words he is reading, like he doesn't really understand what is going on in the story. He sounds too young and plummy to portray the mature characters that this book involves . His various accents are interesting although I think he needs to research how to do a Shetland Scots voice as his various local characters sounded nothing like Shetland! I am guessing that Edward thinks that he can differentiate between characters by using Irish, Scouse,London gangster and Moonshine American. And I suppose he can. However I found myself laughing and feeling I was at a Pantomime, and an amateur production at that.
The fourteen stone, six foot detective Jack Dawes sounds like a maiden aunt and Detective Bugsy Malone sounds like a cross between Michael Caine and Del boy Trotter!
While the story was okay, if a little far fetched (which I can forgive) I am afraid that the wonderful inhabitants of the Shetland Isles may not feel the same! They do not survive in Mutton and fish and they certainly would not drink or bathe in water that was as impure as that described in this book! The inhabitants of Doomdochry Castle would have been dead within a week!
I don't think I will be reading any more of these books but I KNOW I won't be listening to any more of Mr Mitchell's narrations!
I think I was generous awarding 3 stars
The Shetland Killer book title attracted me to this writer as I have have a fascination with Shetland having read many other books set there. I also visited the beautiful islands a couple of years ago! As this was the third in the series of Jack and Corrie Cases stories I read The Greek Island Killer and The Bluebell Killer first to get to know the characters.
By the time I was ready to read the third book I had decided to buy an audible narration. This was a big mistake. Edward Mitchell is simply dreadful! His reading voice is like listening to the head boy at a snobby private school doing a speech on parents day! Much of the time his intonation is incorrect for the words he is reading, like he doesn't really understand what is going on in the story. He sounds too young and plummy to portray the mature characters that this book involves . His various accents are interesting although I think he needs to research how to do a Shetland Scots voice as his various local characters sounded nothing like Shetland! I am guessing that Edward thinks that he can differentiate between characters by using Irish, Scouse,London gangster and Moonshine American. And I suppose he can. However I found myself laughing and feeling I was at a Pantomime, and an amateur production at that.
The fourteen stone, six foot detective Jack Dawes sounds like a maiden aunt and Detective Bugsy Malone sounds like a cross between Michael Caine and Del boy Trotter!
While the story was okay, if a little far fetched (which I can forgive) I am afraid that the wonderful inhabitants of the Shetland Isles may not feel the same! They do not survive in Mutton and fish and they certainly would not drink or bathe in water that was as impure as that described in this book! The inhabitants of Doomdochry Castle would have been dead within a week!
I don't think I will be reading any more of these books but I KNOW I won't be listening to any more of Mr Mitchell's narrations!
I think I was generous awarding 3 stars
March 15, 2025
Excellent Police Procedural!!
Enjoyable, interesting, intriguing! This was a fantastic read. Sinister crimes and more than one murder, happening from London and then all the way to the wilds of Scotland. DI Jack Dawes and his wingman "Bugsy" Malone are investigating the gruesome murder of a call girl when they are abruptly sent to Scotland to investigate a strange death there. The local police department has been decimated due to an outbreak of swine flu, and are in need of reinforcements. DCS Garwood wanting to get DI Dawes out of his hair because if his usual nefarious reasons sends them to a very remote area, where they are to investigate the suspicious death of a young girl who allegedly fell from the tower of an ancient castle.
What follows is a tale of very strange happenings, even stranger people and a creepy old castle straight out of a horror movie. It held my interest throughout and I never guessed the real culprit behind all of the sinister things happening. I suspected one person but it wasn't the mastermind of the madness. Fast paced with intricate finely drawn characters who each seem totally realistic. I especially like Busy who has a quick wit and a clever response for every situation. A minor quibble, if I were Bugsy I would have demanded better sleeping arrangements than a cold drafty room at the top of the tower without heat or bathroom facilities. Especially when Jack and the other constable had very nice bedrooms with a working fireplace. But just a minor irritation on my part, he made the best of it, never complained and was always ready with a quip or two.
All in all another enjoyable book in this wonderful series. Corrie manages to end up in the soup as usual trying to help her husband with his investigation and comes off the worst for wear. This is one of the books I missed reading. Glad I went back and discovered the few I didn't read. Highly recommend this series. You won't be disappointed!!
Enjoyable, interesting, intriguing! This was a fantastic read. Sinister crimes and more than one murder, happening from London and then all the way to the wilds of Scotland. DI Jack Dawes and his wingman "Bugsy" Malone are investigating the gruesome murder of a call girl when they are abruptly sent to Scotland to investigate a strange death there. The local police department has been decimated due to an outbreak of swine flu, and are in need of reinforcements. DCS Garwood wanting to get DI Dawes out of his hair because if his usual nefarious reasons sends them to a very remote area, where they are to investigate the suspicious death of a young girl who allegedly fell from the tower of an ancient castle.
What follows is a tale of very strange happenings, even stranger people and a creepy old castle straight out of a horror movie. It held my interest throughout and I never guessed the real culprit behind all of the sinister things happening. I suspected one person but it wasn't the mastermind of the madness. Fast paced with intricate finely drawn characters who each seem totally realistic. I especially like Busy who has a quick wit and a clever response for every situation. A minor quibble, if I were Bugsy I would have demanded better sleeping arrangements than a cold drafty room at the top of the tower without heat or bathroom facilities. Especially when Jack and the other constable had very nice bedrooms with a working fireplace. But just a minor irritation on my part, he made the best of it, never complained and was always ready with a quip or two.
All in all another enjoyable book in this wonderful series. Corrie manages to end up in the soup as usual trying to help her husband with his investigation and comes off the worst for wear. This is one of the books I missed reading. Glad I went back and discovered the few I didn't read. Highly recommend this series. You won't be disappointed!!
April 9, 2025
I've just read 3 books which kind of annoyed me so thought I'd read a book I was sure I'd enjoy. This one, 'The Shetland Killer' by Frances Lloyd, is not just a thriller set in Shetland but actually on my favourite island of Unst. How could I not like it? Actually I hated it. The story itself wasn't too bad (but only insofar as the setting was far, far worse), but the setting was horrendous. For a start the author seemed to think Shetland was Scottish. Which, okay I know it technically it, but culturally it couldn't be more different. The story is set in a castle (and Unst does have one of Shetland's 2 castles), but this was a fictional castle. I could allow for a bit of poetic licence but this was way beyond the realms of poetic licence. The castle, the family, the names, the stereotypes (oh the stereotypes!) were all basically what you would find (stereotypically speaking) in a castle in the Highlands not in Shetland. Every Scottish stereotype was chucked in. We had kilts, bagpipes, the lot. There was even a ghillie! (What on earth would a ghillie be doing in Shetland?) When there were token mentions of anything Shetland (like having a peep in a boat shed and finding a galley) no-one, including the police officer who was an Unst native, knew what it was. Then later on when Up Helly Aa was mentioned, the facts about it were all wrong. If this book hadn't have been on my Kindle I probably would have thrown it against the wall. At least with it being on my Kindle I didn't have to look at the cover each time I picked it up, which would have annoyed me even more because it's of the wrong part of Shetland. Shetland has such a fascinating and full history and culture there was no need to fill the book with all these Scottish stereotypes. Obviously the writer hasn't been to Shetland and did absolutely zilch research before deciding to set her book there.
May 24, 2020
Doomed, we are awe doomed!
A new writer to me, and an enjoyable thriller. The story is split between London and Shetland in deepest winter. The writer has good (forgivable fun) with the weird Scots, och aye the noo, and plays with the reader's credibility on getting folk easily off and on a remote island in winter, but well, I as a Scot enjoyed it much to care. Our detective , Inspector Jack Dawes and his scruffy and ever ravenous sergeant (so far so cliche) investigate the death of a prostitute and this does in with a high grade anti dr ugs operation. However I am a bit annoyed that having read several new writers recently they all seem to have the same formula of a brilliant detective with loopy wife, shambling sergeant and worse than useless superior officer. Is the advice being handed out to new writers? That moan over I recommend this book . Good dialogue, slightly iffy details but a rattling entertaining yarn. Enjoy!
A new writer to me, and an enjoyable thriller. The story is split between London and Shetland in deepest winter. The writer has good (forgivable fun) with the weird Scots, och aye the noo, and plays with the reader's credibility on getting folk easily off and on a remote island in winter, but well, I as a Scot enjoyed it much to care. Our detective , Inspector Jack Dawes and his scruffy and ever ravenous sergeant (so far so cliche) investigate the death of a prostitute and this does in with a high grade anti dr ugs operation. However I am a bit annoyed that having read several new writers recently they all seem to have the same formula of a brilliant detective with loopy wife, shambling sergeant and worse than useless superior officer. Is the advice being handed out to new writers? That moan over I recommend this book . Good dialogue, slightly iffy details but a rattling entertaining yarn. Enjoy!
April 26, 2020
D I Dawes is rushed away from his double murder to Shetland and a creepy castle. (the castle and ghosts are real).
The Superintendent wants Jack and Bygsy out of the way for his Annual Review. He slips his ( lazy) pet D I into the London case to close down the murders to boost his figures and sends Jack and Bugsy to review a death (murder or suicide) from the castles battlements.
There is no help only hinderence from everyone in Shetland. A Viking settlement is also weird and wonderful.
The group are on the way home when recalled. This time to a definate murder.
Mayhem and undercover cops. Where is the lovely Corrie. Up to her neck in trouble as usual.
Vastly entertaining and completely unbelievable. Not for the serious thriller/police follower. But if you can take it as entertaining then you will love these characters.
The Superintendent wants Jack and Bygsy out of the way for his Annual Review. He slips his ( lazy) pet D I into the London case to close down the murders to boost his figures and sends Jack and Bugsy to review a death (murder or suicide) from the castles battlements.
There is no help only hinderence from everyone in Shetland. A Viking settlement is also weird and wonderful.
The group are on the way home when recalled. This time to a definate murder.
Mayhem and undercover cops. Where is the lovely Corrie. Up to her neck in trouble as usual.
Vastly entertaining and completely unbelievable. Not for the serious thriller/police follower. But if you can take it as entertaining then you will love these characters.
September 4, 2022
I would actually give this one more like 3,5 stars, as it does not fully meet 4 but it is better than many books I gave 3 to.
I do not think I read any book by this author yet and I actually really enjoyed it. I was able to guess part of the plot right, who was behind it, but not fully, the hints are obvious as well as not so obvious and it is not easy for the reader to guess the full story, especially since it is divided between London and the Shetlands. Also I really enjoyed the end of the book, the end for the killer seemed to be so fitting. And the different story plots actually tie together well, better than I expected.
I would recommend this book and I will try more from the series.
I do not think I read any book by this author yet and I actually really enjoyed it. I was able to guess part of the plot right, who was behind it, but not fully, the hints are obvious as well as not so obvious and it is not easy for the reader to guess the full story, especially since it is divided between London and the Shetlands. Also I really enjoyed the end of the book, the end for the killer seemed to be so fitting. And the different story plots actually tie together well, better than I expected.
I would recommend this book and I will try more from the series.
September 5, 2022
Hardwood really doesn’t like Jack Dawes, does he? Well he thought he had the perfect plan to get him right away this time. However it didn’t quite work out like that. Another great case for DI Dawes and Sgt Malone. A long way from home but after thinking they were getting nowhere, suddenly the pieces start falling into place. And not only that, they link to the case that Jack was ripped away from and a huge drugs case that has been going on cross borders. But do we feel sorry for Garwood? Not one bit. Jack and Bugsey solve their cases and of course Corrie has to get involved again as well. All good stuff.
January 31, 2021
Enjoyed the storyline and the bringing together of the different elements but was less enamoured with the random efforts of Corrie... why would you do the things she does ... she can’t be totally oblivious to the consequences of her action ... the less than believable end for the villain and the lack of continuity of some of the details from the last book - I am a bit confused as to what police force they all work for as we seem to have moved from a rich over privileged area to possibly south London ? And what happened to the young constable injured in the last book ...
April 24, 2021
I read a previous novel by the author and characters and was impressed.
However, this book was very disappointing. The plot was still good, but the Corrie Dawes character is very annoying and this spoils the book, with her ridiculous meddling.
In addition, the them that all senior policemen like Garwood are both stupid and only care about their careers 'no matter the cost' is pathetic and an insult to both the reader and the Police Force.
Dawes and Malone are great characters, and in both books I have read I have enjoyed the plot, but I will not be reading any more books.
However, this book was very disappointing. The plot was still good, but the Corrie Dawes character is very annoying and this spoils the book, with her ridiculous meddling.
In addition, the them that all senior policemen like Garwood are both stupid and only care about their careers 'no matter the cost' is pathetic and an insult to both the reader and the Police Force.
Dawes and Malone are great characters, and in both books I have read I have enjoyed the plot, but I will not be reading any more books.
August 22, 2022
Not as good as the first 2 books. To start they are sent to Shetland because his boss wants him out of the way?? They said it was a bed and breakfast but the castle is in no way prepared for guests - heating and cooking are poor. The multiple story lines did not work for me in this rural setting Then multiple murders when there are so few people. But as it ends there are tons of people at the castle - In the time it took for Dawes, Malone and Maggie to elbow their way through the cordon of police holding back the onlookers, DI Carter had positioned police marksmen on every available site.
January 22, 2022
Enjoyable read
The third book in the series took on a more serious side of a murder mystery which I really enjoyed. Far less talk of Bugsy stuffing his face every five minutes and little innuendo at every opportunity. Started with a local murder, moving to the Shetlands to investigate a suspicious death. Entertaining, however Corrie's character a bit silly and far fetched, the situations she gets herself involved in stretches a bit too far. Overall a good read.
The third book in the series took on a more serious side of a murder mystery which I really enjoyed. Far less talk of Bugsy stuffing his face every five minutes and little innuendo at every opportunity. Started with a local murder, moving to the Shetlands to investigate a suspicious death. Entertaining, however Corrie's character a bit silly and far fetched, the situations she gets herself involved in stretches a bit too far. Overall a good read.
May 4, 2022
Worth more than 5*****
I love history. In this book Frances Lloyd has really given it her all. From London to the Shetlands. The Viking settlement with some strange names and people. Jack and bugsy are truly stumped on this crime. Numerous murders presumably unlinked throwing the scent off. Scarey haunting and a few very strange characters. Corri as usual does her own investigation but come a little unstuck. Once but to miss. Brilliant writing
I love history. In this book Frances Lloyd has really given it her all. From London to the Shetlands. The Viking settlement with some strange names and people. Jack and bugsy are truly stumped on this crime. Numerous murders presumably unlinked throwing the scent off. Scarey haunting and a few very strange characters. Corri as usual does her own investigation but come a little unstuck. Once but to miss. Brilliant writing
April 20, 2020
Story keeps you interested. The ghost increases your interest. But Corrie gives you the pips. Always getting into trouble.
I think the story would have been better leaving the wife behind or out of the story all together. The detective is capable and has enough brains to sort out all the problems.
I think the story would have been better leaving the wife behind or out of the story all together. The detective is capable and has enough brains to sort out all the problems.
June 4, 2020
Great book
This book held my interest from the beginning and I couldn't put it down. The story takes place in the cold islands of northern Scotland amid the bleak landscape of the north Atlantic ocean. The storyline was imaginative, the characters were interesting and we'll written. Great series of books.
This book held my interest from the beginning and I couldn't put it down. The story takes place in the cold islands of northern Scotland amid the bleak landscape of the north Atlantic ocean. The storyline was imaginative, the characters were interesting and we'll written. Great series of books.
August 1, 2021
Corrie and Jack Dawes sleuthing again.
A fun read for all who enjoy a good whodunnit.
In this storyJack and sent up to Shetland with his wingman Bugsy.
Improbable plotting.
Genuinely humorously moments and a couple who are comfortable in their own skins and relationships.
A thoroughly enjoyable read
A fun read for all who enjoy a good whodunnit.
In this storyJack and sent up to Shetland with his wingman Bugsy.
Improbable plotting.
Genuinely humorously moments and a couple who are comfortable in their own skins and relationships.
A thoroughly enjoyable read
January 28, 2022
This would have been 5 stars
This amazing book was ruined for me by one simple infuriating mistake. Authors please note!!. There is no such thing as an 'Alsatian'. The breed revered to its original name decades ago. This is such an annoying mistake for those of us who love the breed. They are our German Shepherds. Authors read your reviews!
This amazing book was ruined for me by one simple infuriating mistake. Authors please note!!. There is no such thing as an 'Alsatian'. The breed revered to its original name decades ago. This is such an annoying mistake for those of us who love the breed. They are our German Shepherds. Authors read your reviews!
July 20, 2020
Well that was different but a good different really enjoy bugsy he's just fishing around in the dark but really funny with it the real hero or l should say heroin is Jack Dawes wife.what a hoot. Look forward to the next one.
July 31, 2020
An enjoyable read.
An enjoyable read from start to finish. Kind of reminded me of the midsummer murders TV show how it unfolded as you read on. Will now go on to read the other books in this series.
An enjoyable read from start to finish. Kind of reminded me of the midsummer murders TV show how it unfolded as you read on. Will now go on to read the other books in this series.
February 7, 2021
Couldn’t Put It Down!
I had plans for today but ended up in an old castle on a tiny, blustery cold Scottish island. And loved it! Lots of history, a variety of interesting characters, and a good pace. And a ghost. It was perfect. Read this!
I had plans for today but ended up in an old castle on a tiny, blustery cold Scottish island. And loved it! Lots of history, a variety of interesting characters, and a good pace. And a ghost. It was perfect. Read this!
October 5, 2021
An exciting mystery which started off very slowly and was slow till two thirds of the way through, then raced through to the end. I found it hard to stay with but once it got exciting it was much easier to read!
March 16, 2022
Aggravating
The mysteries, there are a few, are good, what's aggravating is "Corrie Dawes". Any police officer who has this kind of nit wit for a wife, either needs to find a new profession or a new wife, before he gets killed!
The mysteries, there are a few, are good, what's aggravating is "Corrie Dawes". Any police officer who has this kind of nit wit for a wife, either needs to find a new profession or a new wife, before he gets killed!
July 11, 2024
It is very rare I don’t finish a book. Have listened to the first two Jack Daws books via Libby, but I just can’t continue with this one. The narrators god awful kitch Scottish accents are doing ma heid in!
May 9, 2020
This book
I really enjoy these books.Malone is a fabulous character i find him so funny and of course Corrie .I look forward to the next book by this author
I really enjoy these books.Malone is a fabulous character i find him so funny and of course Corrie .I look forward to the next book by this author
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