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Warwick & Bell #3
Murder Against the Odds
The early hours of a freezing January night. Special Constable Jane Bell is at the end of a busy late shift when she’s called out to investigate strange noises in a local park. She finds a wailing new-born baby girl dumped in a plastic storage box.
That same night Detective Steph Warwick attends the murder of coach driver Bernie Gore, whose battered body is found in a narrow alleyway.
The last thing Jane wants is to lock horns with Steph Warwick once again. Then vital evidence emerges linking Bernie Gore’s murder to the abandoned baby. And Jane has no choice but to alert the sharp-tongued detective inspector.
If they are to solve Bernie’s murder and track down Baby Elsa’s mother, the two women must bury the hatchet and learn to work together.
Matters become even more complicated when a prime suspect emerges — with close links to Jane’s family.
That same night Detective Steph Warwick attends the murder of coach driver Bernie Gore, whose battered body is found in a narrow alleyway.
The last thing Jane wants is to lock horns with Steph Warwick once again. Then vital evidence emerges linking Bernie Gore’s murder to the abandoned baby. And Jane has no choice but to alert the sharp-tongued detective inspector.
If they are to solve Bernie’s murder and track down Baby Elsa’s mother, the two women must bury the hatchet and learn to work together.
Matters become even more complicated when a prime suspect emerges — with close links to Jane’s family.
309 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 4, 2023
258 people are currently reading
77 people want to read
About the author
Janice Frost
16 books160 followersJanice was born and grew up in West Lothian, Scotland. Her love of writing began when she was given a notebook by a primary school teacher and told to write ‘Just Imagine,’ on the cover. She enjoyed writing stories in the notebook so much that she decided she'd like to be an author. Due to life, work and children, It took a little longer than she imagined.
After a ten-year stint of working in London, Janice moved to Lincolnshire where she still lives. She now writes full-time. In her free time she enjoys walking, and reading in coffee shops.
Janice is the author of six books in the bestselling Merry & Neal series, four books in the Warwick & Bell series, and one standalone mystery, The Woman on the Cliff.
All of Janice’s books are published by Joffe Books.
The Merry & Neal series
1 Dead Secret
2 Dark Secret
3 Her Husband’s Secret
4. Fatal Secrets
5 Dirty Secrets
6 Murderous Secrets
Warwick & Bell series
1 Murder Among Friends
2 Murder Across The Lines
3 Murder Against The Odds
4 Murder On A Country Walk
Standalone novel
The Woman on the Cliff
After a ten-year stint of working in London, Janice moved to Lincolnshire where she still lives. She now writes full-time. In her free time she enjoys walking, and reading in coffee shops.
Janice is the author of six books in the bestselling Merry & Neal series, four books in the Warwick & Bell series, and one standalone mystery, The Woman on the Cliff.
All of Janice’s books are published by Joffe Books.
The Merry & Neal series
1 Dead Secret
2 Dark Secret
3 Her Husband’s Secret
4. Fatal Secrets
5 Dirty Secrets
6 Murderous Secrets
Warwick & Bell series
1 Murder Among Friends
2 Murder Across The Lines
3 Murder Against The Odds
4 Murder On A Country Walk
Standalone novel
The Woman on the Cliff
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
February 16, 2023
Gambling and murder!
I’ve read all the Warwick and Bell crime stories thus far. It’s interesting in that Frost has chosen a different social dilemma / crime theme for each title. In Aginst the Odds gambling raises its ugly head. There’s also cohesive control, and the selling of children.
This time a new born baby is left in a rotunda, a young protestor disappears, a man is murdered in the CBD, Jane Bell’s daughter has hooked up with a man much older than her who Jane fears might be controlling, and more. There are confluences of influence that surprise us all.
With the gambling, people are being conned by unscrupulous loan sharks, and then finding themselves in thrall to those entities.
DI Steph Warwick has been undergoing therapy and she’s somewhat less aggressive in her relationships with people.
I tossed up between a 3 / 4 star response. In the end I feel that the moving parts came together well, even though Jane has lately been annoying me.
A good read though that held my interest.
A Joffe Books ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
I’ve read all the Warwick and Bell crime stories thus far. It’s interesting in that Frost has chosen a different social dilemma / crime theme for each title. In Aginst the Odds gambling raises its ugly head. There’s also cohesive control, and the selling of children.
This time a new born baby is left in a rotunda, a young protestor disappears, a man is murdered in the CBD, Jane Bell’s daughter has hooked up with a man much older than her who Jane fears might be controlling, and more. There are confluences of influence that surprise us all.
With the gambling, people are being conned by unscrupulous loan sharks, and then finding themselves in thrall to those entities.
DI Steph Warwick has been undergoing therapy and she’s somewhat less aggressive in her relationships with people.
I tossed up between a 3 / 4 star response. In the end I feel that the moving parts came together well, even though Jane has lately been annoying me.
A good read though that held my interest.
A Joffe Books ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
March 5, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up.
Warwick and Bell #3
In the early hours of a freezing January night, Special Constable Jane Bell is at the end of a busy late shift when she's called out to investigate strange noises in a local park. She finds a new-born baby girl dumped in a plastic storage box. That same night Detective Steph Warwick attends the murder of a coach driver Bernie Gore, whose battered body is found in a narrow alleyway. The last thing Jane wants is to lock horns with Steph Warwick once again. Then vital evidence emerges linking Bernie Gore's murder to the abandoned baby. Jane has no choice but to alert the sharp-lounged detective inspector.
An abandoned baby, a coach driver who has been murdered, there's a connection of sorts, they both had a poker chip on them when they were found. But what is the significance of the poker chip? Jane and Steph don't get along, but they have to work together. There's plenty of twists in this well written addition to the series. It's also an easy book to read. The plotline is believable, the characters are well developed. I was quickly pu;;ed into this story, wondering what the connection to the poker chips was all about. There's plenty of suspects to choose from.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #JoffeBooks and the author #JanisFrost for my ARC of #MurderAgainstTheOdds in exchange for an honest review.
Warwick and Bell #3
In the early hours of a freezing January night, Special Constable Jane Bell is at the end of a busy late shift when she's called out to investigate strange noises in a local park. She finds a new-born baby girl dumped in a plastic storage box. That same night Detective Steph Warwick attends the murder of a coach driver Bernie Gore, whose battered body is found in a narrow alleyway. The last thing Jane wants is to lock horns with Steph Warwick once again. Then vital evidence emerges linking Bernie Gore's murder to the abandoned baby. Jane has no choice but to alert the sharp-lounged detective inspector.
An abandoned baby, a coach driver who has been murdered, there's a connection of sorts, they both had a poker chip on them when they were found. But what is the significance of the poker chip? Jane and Steph don't get along, but they have to work together. There's plenty of twists in this well written addition to the series. It's also an easy book to read. The plotline is believable, the characters are well developed. I was quickly pu;;ed into this story, wondering what the connection to the poker chips was all about. There's plenty of suspects to choose from.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #JoffeBooks and the author #JanisFrost for my ARC of #MurderAgainstTheOdds in exchange for an honest review.
February 13, 2023
Many thanks to both Joffe Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of Murder Against the Odds.
Expected publication March 4, 2023
3.5 stars, rounded up.
The early hours of a freezing January night. Special Constable Jane Bell is at the end of a busy late shift when she’s called out to investigate strange noises in a local park. She finds a wailing newborn baby girl dumped in a plastic storage box...
Murder Against the Odds is my first book in the Warwick & Bell Series and I found it to be filled with twists and turns aplenty! I had a bit of trouble getting into the story, as there were also explanations aplenty. I'm sure that if I had read the previous books in the series all of the explanations would have made sense to me but I found myself a little lost. However, the more I read, the more I became hooked by the story.
I liked SPC Jane Bell a lot and by the end of the book I even liked DI Stephanie Warwick. (Warwick definitely needs a couple of therapy bunnies!) I think Elias was my favorite character. He made even ME feel better with his calmness and wisdom!!
Expected publication March 4, 2023
3.5 stars, rounded up.
The early hours of a freezing January night. Special Constable Jane Bell is at the end of a busy late shift when she’s called out to investigate strange noises in a local park. She finds a wailing newborn baby girl dumped in a plastic storage box...
Murder Against the Odds is my first book in the Warwick & Bell Series and I found it to be filled with twists and turns aplenty! I had a bit of trouble getting into the story, as there were also explanations aplenty. I'm sure that if I had read the previous books in the series all of the explanations would have made sense to me but I found myself a little lost. However, the more I read, the more I became hooked by the story.
I liked SPC Jane Bell a lot and by the end of the book I even liked DI Stephanie Warwick. (Warwick definitely needs a couple of therapy bunnies!) I think Elias was my favorite character. He made even ME feel better with his calmness and wisdom!!
February 14, 2023
This review and others can be found at https://bookbetterbest.blogspot.com/
First of all, I would like to thank Joffe Books and NetGalley for an ARC copy of Murder Against The Odds by Janice Frost to read and review.
Special Constable Jane Bell investigates noises reported in a local park, she discovers an abandoned newborn baby girl in a storage box. Detective Steph Warwick is called out on the same night, to a murder scene of a coach driver in an alley. Are these two crimes linked in any way? These two ladies will find out soon...
This was my first book by the author, even though it is part of a series and is the third book, I didn't feel like I missed anything. In my opinion this can be read as a stand-alone, but at the same time, things were mentioned in this book(as part of an explanation of previous events) that piqued my interest to read the first and second book very soon.
I found the writing of the author really well done, it was an easy read but at the same time very gripping. Every time I picked up the book to read, I completely forgot about the world around me. The twists and turns of the mystery, kept me turning the pages. Her storytelling completely captivated me. I loved the characters Janice Frost created, Jane Bell and Steph Warwick, each of them struggling with their own insecurities, and that made it possible to connect with these fictional minds. These characters felt completely real and believable.
Many events take place within this novel and many issues are covered, which at some point felt a little overwhelming and a lot of information to absorb, if that makes sense...but it didn't take anything away from the overall plot of the story.
First of all, I would like to thank Joffe Books and NetGalley for an ARC copy of Murder Against The Odds by Janice Frost to read and review.
Special Constable Jane Bell investigates noises reported in a local park, she discovers an abandoned newborn baby girl in a storage box. Detective Steph Warwick is called out on the same night, to a murder scene of a coach driver in an alley. Are these two crimes linked in any way? These two ladies will find out soon...
This was my first book by the author, even though it is part of a series and is the third book, I didn't feel like I missed anything. In my opinion this can be read as a stand-alone, but at the same time, things were mentioned in this book(as part of an explanation of previous events) that piqued my interest to read the first and second book very soon.
I found the writing of the author really well done, it was an easy read but at the same time very gripping. Every time I picked up the book to read, I completely forgot about the world around me. The twists and turns of the mystery, kept me turning the pages. Her storytelling completely captivated me. I loved the characters Janice Frost created, Jane Bell and Steph Warwick, each of them struggling with their own insecurities, and that made it possible to connect with these fictional minds. These characters felt completely real and believable.
Many events take place within this novel and many issues are covered, which at some point felt a little overwhelming and a lot of information to absorb, if that makes sense...but it didn't take anything away from the overall plot of the story.
March 23, 2023
I enjoyed this, there was a lot going on and some emotive subjects were dealt with sensitively and well. The plot launches immediately into intrigue and shock with an abandoned baby and a murder. The suspects and motives are carefully and gradually presented but the real truths take some time to unravel with a few twists and turns along the way. The characters are interesting and well rounded and come to life brilliantly. I loved the East Midlands aspects, being originally from Nottinghamshire myself and loved the nods to the dialect, culture and surroundings. I also found the glossary of terms at the end of the book amusing and hadn’t really noticed quite so much dialect / peculiarities of British language has crept in.
A very decent mystery which held my interest well.
A very decent mystery which held my interest well.
March 9, 2023
Rating 3.9
I picked this story up off the 'Read Now' section of Net Galley as my first ever Advanced Readers Copy (ARC) and I'm so happy I did because now I need to go read the other two books in the series! When I picked this book up I honestly didn't know it was the third of a series but what I found was that I really didn't need to read the other ones to think it was incredible! Honestly, it reads like a standalone and any reference to the other stories are explained with enough background to understand although you don't fully understand the two women's distain together. The characters were connectable and while I may not have been familiar with some of the words / locations because it's set in the UK, I was able to follow along and enjoyed the relationships that were developed and exposed through the story
On a cold night, SC Bell and her partner get called to the scene of an abandoned baby (Baby Elsa) who's discovered wrapped into a heavy winter coat with a poker chip in it's pocket. Detective Warwick also has a busy night and is called to the scene of a murder of a bus trip driver (Bernie) nearby and a similar poker chip is discovered. The entire story is figuring out the 'who' and the 'why' behind these two events - are the connected? Do the poker chips mean anything?
A much older boyfriend (who gives off total creep vibes), a bar owner and his son, bookies and more, all come together and interweave through the story in ways that I could have never seen - but the fact that they do amazed me at every new revelation. I also loved the way that the author didn't really let you know it was going to connect until... BAM it all made sense (and I finally said 'no freaking way' because it connected in ways that I didn't even see coming).
I am always a fan of detective stories and I honestly think had I had more character references or development I could have rated this even higher (I blame myself for reading out of order - not the book or the writer!). Janice had a way of bringing the story separate directions and then wrapping it all up in a bow - no question was left unanswered. Warwick & Bell have a unique woman working relationship that while often times felt uncomfortable, it felt like it was relatable and understandable and professional but still looking out for each other and respecting the way that they each work.
I want to thank Joffe Books for collaborating with NetGalley and making this story a 'Read Now' ARC and for publishing a wonderful read and allowing me to share my thoughts and opinions with the story early!
I picked this story up off the 'Read Now' section of Net Galley as my first ever Advanced Readers Copy (ARC) and I'm so happy I did because now I need to go read the other two books in the series! When I picked this book up I honestly didn't know it was the third of a series but what I found was that I really didn't need to read the other ones to think it was incredible! Honestly, it reads like a standalone and any reference to the other stories are explained with enough background to understand although you don't fully understand the two women's distain together. The characters were connectable and while I may not have been familiar with some of the words / locations because it's set in the UK, I was able to follow along and enjoyed the relationships that were developed and exposed through the story
On a cold night, SC Bell and her partner get called to the scene of an abandoned baby (Baby Elsa) who's discovered wrapped into a heavy winter coat with a poker chip in it's pocket. Detective Warwick also has a busy night and is called to the scene of a murder of a bus trip driver (Bernie) nearby and a similar poker chip is discovered. The entire story is figuring out the 'who' and the 'why' behind these two events - are the connected? Do the poker chips mean anything?
A much older boyfriend (who gives off total creep vibes), a bar owner and his son, bookies and more, all come together and interweave through the story in ways that I could have never seen - but the fact that they do amazed me at every new revelation. I also loved the way that the author didn't really let you know it was going to connect until... BAM it all made sense (and I finally said 'no freaking way' because it connected in ways that I didn't even see coming).
I am always a fan of detective stories and I honestly think had I had more character references or development I could have rated this even higher (I blame myself for reading out of order - not the book or the writer!). Janice had a way of bringing the story separate directions and then wrapping it all up in a bow - no question was left unanswered. Warwick & Bell have a unique woman working relationship that while often times felt uncomfortable, it felt like it was relatable and understandable and professional but still looking out for each other and respecting the way that they each work.
I want to thank Joffe Books for collaborating with NetGalley and making this story a 'Read Now' ARC and for publishing a wonderful read and allowing me to share my thoughts and opinions with the story early!
March 9, 2023
Get your brain in gear
So much going on. Our Special Constable managed to keep away from the murder of a coach driver, letting us hear more about the characters of the DI and her Sergeant. Apart from that she was in everything. She took an instant dislike to her daughter's new boyfriend, causing home friction. She was visiting an ex-pupil on a sit in protest, bringing hardware clothes, not drinks etc which made her a target for the protest leader. Also finding the Mother of the abandoned baby plus 101 other things. I enjoyed this one more than book 1. I look forward to seeing the characters expand as the stories unfold and the author gets to 'know' the characters as 'people's rather than just being part of the story.
So much going on. Our Special Constable managed to keep away from the murder of a coach driver, letting us hear more about the characters of the DI and her Sergeant. Apart from that she was in everything. She took an instant dislike to her daughter's new boyfriend, causing home friction. She was visiting an ex-pupil on a sit in protest, bringing hardware clothes, not drinks etc which made her a target for the protest leader. Also finding the Mother of the abandoned baby plus 101 other things. I enjoyed this one more than book 1. I look forward to seeing the characters expand as the stories unfold and the author gets to 'know' the characters as 'people's rather than just being part of the story.
March 2, 2023
4* ADVANCED READER COPY REVIEW
An interesting concept - a police duo that actually don't work together other than by chance, that don't like each other, that have disjointed intertwined stories.
It all added up to a good read with interesting twists along the way ...I was thinking it merited five stars until a massive leap of faith moment 87% in - a conclusion drawn that for me was rather sketchy and a little at odds with how our main investigator has worked up to this point...and then it just got real messy real fast and a star was lost (to be honest it could have been two but I know that I enjoyed the read to this point and don't want to be churlish).
There's a good ending, promising for future tales which will surely see the "partnership" evolve... I'll happily come back for more (and if time allows I'll add the first two books - Murder Among Friends & Murder Across The Lines" to my wishlist to see how we got to this point).
An interesting concept - a police duo that actually don't work together other than by chance, that don't like each other, that have disjointed intertwined stories.
It all added up to a good read with interesting twists along the way ...I was thinking it merited five stars until a massive leap of faith moment 87% in - a conclusion drawn that for me was rather sketchy and a little at odds with how our main investigator has worked up to this point...and then it just got real messy real fast and a star was lost (to be honest it could have been two but I know that I enjoyed the read to this point and don't want to be churlish).
There's a good ending, promising for future tales which will surely see the "partnership" evolve... I'll happily come back for more (and if time allows I'll add the first two books - Murder Among Friends & Murder Across The Lines" to my wishlist to see how we got to this point).
March 2, 2023
4* ADVANCED READER COPY REVIEW
An interesting concept - a police duo that actually don't work together other than by chance, that don't like each other, that have disjointed intertwined stories.
It all added up to a good read with interesting twists along the way ...I was thinking it merited five stars until a massive leap of faith moment 87% in - a conclusion drawn that for me was rather sketchy and a little at odds with how our main investigator has worked up to this point...and then it just got real messy real fast and a star was lost (to be honest it could have been two but I know that I enjoyed the read to this point and don't want to be churlish).
There's a good ending, promising for future tales which will surely see the "partnership" evolve... I'll happily come back for more (and if time allows I'll add the first two books - Murder Among Friends & Murder Across The Lines" to my wishlist to see how we got to this point).
An interesting concept - a police duo that actually don't work together other than by chance, that don't like each other, that have disjointed intertwined stories.
It all added up to a good read with interesting twists along the way ...I was thinking it merited five stars until a massive leap of faith moment 87% in - a conclusion drawn that for me was rather sketchy and a little at odds with how our main investigator has worked up to this point...and then it just got real messy real fast and a star was lost (to be honest it could have been two but I know that I enjoyed the read to this point and don't want to be churlish).
There's a good ending, promising for future tales which will surely see the "partnership" evolve... I'll happily come back for more (and if time allows I'll add the first two books - Murder Among Friends & Murder Across The Lines" to my wishlist to see how we got to this point).
March 4, 2023
Another Good Book In The Series!
Jane Bell is a special constable who loves her job. One night while on duty she is sent to investigate a strange noise coming from a locked park. When she and her work colleague arrive they find an abandoned baby crying. That same night Detective Steph Warwick is called to investigate the murder of a coach driver. Steph is not easy to get along with, and she and Jane have locked horns before, but when it seems the two incidences have things in common they have to ignore their differences and work together. I am really enjoying this series and loved this book. I hope there is more to come.
Jane Bell is a special constable who loves her job. One night while on duty she is sent to investigate a strange noise coming from a locked park. When she and her work colleague arrive they find an abandoned baby crying. That same night Detective Steph Warwick is called to investigate the murder of a coach driver. Steph is not easy to get along with, and she and Jane have locked horns before, but when it seems the two incidences have things in common they have to ignore their differences and work together. I am really enjoying this series and loved this book. I hope there is more to come.
March 1, 2023
This is the third in the series. I had read the first one and enjoyed it although the character of Warwick was not likeable. What a turnaround. Steph has become more human and much more likeable in this one.
There's a lot of social themes in this book, an abandoned newborn baby, protesters against local development plans and gambling addiction. I enjoyed the story told from Jane and Steph's perspectives and even had a quite unexpected chuckle at a scene with a rabbit. There are plenty of twists here and I was quite engrossed throughout building up nicely to a terrific ending.
My thanks to Joffe Books for a copy of this, and this is my honest review.
There's a lot of social themes in this book, an abandoned newborn baby, protesters against local development plans and gambling addiction. I enjoyed the story told from Jane and Steph's perspectives and even had a quite unexpected chuckle at a scene with a rabbit. There are plenty of twists here and I was quite engrossed throughout building up nicely to a terrific ending.
My thanks to Joffe Books for a copy of this, and this is my honest review.
March 5, 2023
I received an ARC of this book via Joffe Books in return for an honest review.
This book is an easy read and develops the main characters further. Lots of plot twists and a few red herrings thrown in make this a good book. I particularly love this series as it’s set in my home town, so I know all the places mentioned. Recommend.
This book is an easy read and develops the main characters further. Lots of plot twists and a few red herrings thrown in make this a good book. I particularly love this series as it’s set in my home town, so I know all the places mentioned. Recommend.
March 3, 2023
I enjoyed reading this book, it is well written and the storyline flows well.
Jane Bell is a Special Constable, widow and mother; her brown up daughter Norah has returned to stay with her mother. Jane does not like Norah’s new boyfriend and when a murder is committed and his photo is released, Jane does not hesitate to identify him. As a result Norah leaves home. Is Joe involved in the murder and will Norah forgive her mother? Well worth reading to discover what happens.
Jane Bell is a Special Constable, widow and mother; her brown up daughter Norah has returned to stay with her mother. Jane does not like Norah’s new boyfriend and when a murder is committed and his photo is released, Jane does not hesitate to identify him. As a result Norah leaves home. Is Joe involved in the murder and will Norah forgive her mother? Well worth reading to discover what happens.
March 3, 2023
Murder against the odds by Janice Frost.
Warwick & Bell Crime Mysteries Book 3.
The early hours of a freezing January night. Special Constable Jane Bell is at the end of a busy late shift when she’s called out to investigate strange noises in a local park. She finds a wailing new-born baby girl dumped in a plastic storage box.
This was a really good read. I did like Jane and Stephanie. 4*.
Warwick & Bell Crime Mysteries Book 3.
The early hours of a freezing January night. Special Constable Jane Bell is at the end of a busy late shift when she’s called out to investigate strange noises in a local park. She finds a wailing new-born baby girl dumped in a plastic storage box.
This was a really good read. I did like Jane and Stephanie. 4*.
May 17, 2023
Murder against the odds by Jamie Frost.
This is a very good series with these two characters, and how the author works them together in the story is two stories in one. Very good combination and it works well , excellent read
This is a very good series with these two characters, and how the author works them together in the story is two stories in one. Very good combination and it works well , excellent read
March 4, 2023
This is the first book I have read in this series, and I will certainly read the other books. Although I wish I'd read the previous books first to get more insight into the main characters. I soon became absorbed into a clever gripping storyline and plot, with many twists and turns and good strong characters.
A storyline with a different approach that keeps you guessing, plenty of suspects, and a very surprising final outcome, I never saw coming.
My thanks to Joffe books for the copy. This is my honest, unbiased review
A storyline with a different approach that keeps you guessing, plenty of suspects, and a very surprising final outcome, I never saw coming.
My thanks to Joffe books for the copy. This is my honest, unbiased review
May 14, 2023
Warwick & Bell
This book is great. I really enjoyed it and I shall be reading some more. I highly recommend them. Definitely 10 out of 10
This book is great. I really enjoyed it and I shall be reading some more. I highly recommend them. Definitely 10 out of 10
February 13, 2023
A compelling story I love this series so far, Gripping chapters from start to finish.
Lincoln, as we join the characters Steph Warwick and Jane Bell in book three murder against the odds.
An abandoned Baby girl in a park, A murdered coach driver both are found with poker chips on them, could this be a compulsive gambler and are they linked, read on chapter after chapter.
You grow to love all the characters good or bad, this book has so many twists to set your heart beating faster as you read. I will look forward to hopefully many more to come.
Lincoln, as we join the characters Steph Warwick and Jane Bell in book three murder against the odds.
An abandoned Baby girl in a park, A murdered coach driver both are found with poker chips on them, could this be a compulsive gambler and are they linked, read on chapter after chapter.
You grow to love all the characters good or bad, this book has so many twists to set your heart beating faster as you read. I will look forward to hopefully many more to come.
February 5, 2023
Call came in, in the park of a baby cry or maybe a fox, Agents Jane.Bell.and Tim Stern thought. A baby few hours old, a poker chip caught inside the towel.
A murdered coach driver had within a pocket, a poker chip.
Jane and Warwick do not agree, but the connection is close to Jane and to solve, she must work with her.
A good plot to figure out, and with characters we like , and readers will enjoy
Given ARC for my voluntary review by Joffe. March 4..’23
A murdered coach driver had within a pocket, a poker chip.
Jane and Warwick do not agree, but the connection is close to Jane and to solve, she must work with her.
A good plot to figure out, and with characters we like , and readers will enjoy
Given ARC for my voluntary review by Joffe. March 4..’23
February 13, 2023
Many thanks to JOFFE books for permission to read an Advance pre publication reader copy, this review is given voluntarily.
I had not read the two previous books in the series and while this did not detract from the story line as past events were alluded to well, I was less invested in the characters than I could have been.
The writing is polished and well structured, but so many issues were alluded to, climate change stance, gambling issues, veganism and attitudes toward it, past trauma and coping mechanisms, parental pitfalls etc… that it became a little over heavy with moral issues. There was little description of the characters perhaps as this had been covered in previous books. I always look out for my senses being engaged in the narrative, sounds, smells, sights, tastes etc. I found less than I would wish for.
I was tempted to give less than three stars, but this book is redeemed by the two voices of the main characters Special Constable Jane and DI Steph, it was interesting watching how each felt about the other and how they interacted from the two points of view.
I had not read the two previous books in the series and while this did not detract from the story line as past events were alluded to well, I was less invested in the characters than I could have been.
The writing is polished and well structured, but so many issues were alluded to, climate change stance, gambling issues, veganism and attitudes toward it, past trauma and coping mechanisms, parental pitfalls etc… that it became a little over heavy with moral issues. There was little description of the characters perhaps as this had been covered in previous books. I always look out for my senses being engaged in the narrative, sounds, smells, sights, tastes etc. I found less than I would wish for.
I was tempted to give less than three stars, but this book is redeemed by the two voices of the main characters Special Constable Jane and DI Steph, it was interesting watching how each felt about the other and how they interacted from the two points of view.
March 13, 2023
I have been a fan of Janice’s work for a while now. I have read and loved each and every book that she has written to date. I must admit that I do have a special fondness for the series featuring Detective Steph Warwick and Special Constable Jane Bell. When I heard that Janice was due to release another book in the series, I knew that I had to get hold of a copy at the earliest opportunity. Well ladies and gents the wait is over because the third book in the ‘Warwick & Bell’ series is called ‘Murder Against The Odds’ and it was released on 4th March 2023. It’s another great addition to a great series.
I must admit that it took me a little while to get into ‘Murder Against The Odds’ which has more to do with the fact that I was tired and finding it hard to concentrate when I started to read rather than anything else. Once I got into the story, that was it and I was away as the saying goes. I would pick the book up only intending to read a chapter or two but I would become so wrapped up in the story that I would still be sat there reading several chapters later. The characters intrigued me and I loved the rather spiky working relationship between Warwick and Bell. I developed my own theories as to what was going to happen so of course I had to keep reading to see if I was anywhere near the truth or if I had wandered off in another direction. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘Murder Against The Odds’ and I had to goodbye to Warwick, Bell and the rest of the characters. I found ‘Murder Against The Odds’ to be a gripping and at times dramatic read, which certainly kept me guessing and kept me on the edge of my seat.
‘Murder Against The Odds’ is extremely well written but then I have come to expect nothing less from Janice Frost. She certainly knows how to grab the reader’s attention and draw them into what proves to be one hell of a story. For me, the story hit the ground running and maintained a brisk pace throughout. Janice clearly cares about her characters and this shines through in the very vivid and realistic way in which she describes them. She makes her characters seem just as real as you and I. Reading ‘Murder Against The Odds’ felt like being on an at times scary and rather unpredictable rollercoaster ride with several twists and turns along the way. I love the way in which Janice makes the reader feel as though they part of the story and at the heart of the action.
In short and overall I did enjoy reading ‘Murder Against The Odds’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Janice’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 4* out of 5*.
I must admit that it took me a little while to get into ‘Murder Against The Odds’ which has more to do with the fact that I was tired and finding it hard to concentrate when I started to read rather than anything else. Once I got into the story, that was it and I was away as the saying goes. I would pick the book up only intending to read a chapter or two but I would become so wrapped up in the story that I would still be sat there reading several chapters later. The characters intrigued me and I loved the rather spiky working relationship between Warwick and Bell. I developed my own theories as to what was going to happen so of course I had to keep reading to see if I was anywhere near the truth or if I had wandered off in another direction. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘Murder Against The Odds’ and I had to goodbye to Warwick, Bell and the rest of the characters. I found ‘Murder Against The Odds’ to be a gripping and at times dramatic read, which certainly kept me guessing and kept me on the edge of my seat.
‘Murder Against The Odds’ is extremely well written but then I have come to expect nothing less from Janice Frost. She certainly knows how to grab the reader’s attention and draw them into what proves to be one hell of a story. For me, the story hit the ground running and maintained a brisk pace throughout. Janice clearly cares about her characters and this shines through in the very vivid and realistic way in which she describes them. She makes her characters seem just as real as you and I. Reading ‘Murder Against The Odds’ felt like being on an at times scary and rather unpredictable rollercoaster ride with several twists and turns along the way. I love the way in which Janice makes the reader feel as though they part of the story and at the heart of the action.
In short and overall I did enjoy reading ‘Murder Against The Odds’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Janice’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 4* out of 5*.
February 16, 2023
I would like to thank Netgalley and Joffe Books for an advance copy of Murder Against the Odds, the third novel to feature SPC Jane Bell and DI Steph Warwick of Lincolnshire Police.
While Jane is attending a call about noises in the park, Steph is investigating a murder. Jane finds an abandoned new born and Steph wonders who would want to murder a coach tour driver, Bernie Gore. When links appear between the two cases the women have no choice but to work together, especially when a viable suspect has links to Jane’s family.
I thoroughly enjoyed Murder Against the Odds, which is full of twists and unexpected links and goes in directions I wasn’t expecting. It’s told from Bell and Warwick’s points of view and rather these alternating perspectives being a distraction it works extremely well as they are attacking the various leads from different angles, giving the reader more food for thought and a wider view of events.
The novel also changed my view on the characters. Steph Warwick is growing before my eyes as she seems to have found some empathy. She can still be brusque and awkward, but she’s learning to tame. For the first time I can say that I really like her, and like her better than Jane Bell, who comes across as emotionally needy and a bit interfering in this novel. That’s the first direction I didn’t expect.
The plot is absorbing and held my attention throughout. Jane Bell has all sorts of domestic crises to navigate and whatever she does is wrong according to her family members. Still, she manages to unearth information and links that are useful to Steph Warwick and conduct a small investigation of her own in a subplot. Warwick’s investigation is a doozy, full of lying witnesses, undisclosed acquaintanceships and a victim who is not as innocent as he first appears. It’s one surprising reveal after another culminating in an explosive showdown, which is well worth the journey to get there.
Murder Against the Odds is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
While Jane is attending a call about noises in the park, Steph is investigating a murder. Jane finds an abandoned new born and Steph wonders who would want to murder a coach tour driver, Bernie Gore. When links appear between the two cases the women have no choice but to work together, especially when a viable suspect has links to Jane’s family.
I thoroughly enjoyed Murder Against the Odds, which is full of twists and unexpected links and goes in directions I wasn’t expecting. It’s told from Bell and Warwick’s points of view and rather these alternating perspectives being a distraction it works extremely well as they are attacking the various leads from different angles, giving the reader more food for thought and a wider view of events.
The novel also changed my view on the characters. Steph Warwick is growing before my eyes as she seems to have found some empathy. She can still be brusque and awkward, but she’s learning to tame. For the first time I can say that I really like her, and like her better than Jane Bell, who comes across as emotionally needy and a bit interfering in this novel. That’s the first direction I didn’t expect.
The plot is absorbing and held my attention throughout. Jane Bell has all sorts of domestic crises to navigate and whatever she does is wrong according to her family members. Still, she manages to unearth information and links that are useful to Steph Warwick and conduct a small investigation of her own in a subplot. Warwick’s investigation is a doozy, full of lying witnesses, undisclosed acquaintanceships and a victim who is not as innocent as he first appears. It’s one surprising reveal after another culminating in an explosive showdown, which is well worth the journey to get there.
Murder Against the Odds is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
April 15, 2023
A newborn baby is found abandoned in the snow on the same night that a coach driver is found murdered. Special Constable Jane Bell is concerned about the baby's mother's welfare but her own personal situation is proving to be more urgent as her daughter's boyfriend is linked to the murder...
Murder Against The Odds is the third book in the Warwick and Bell series (I have read and reviewed the second book Murder Across The Lines). There are references to earlier events but it is not necessary to have read the previous books to understand the plot or characters.
Jane and Steph are great lead characters. Both are hard working, feisty, and loyal. But they rubbed each other up the wrong way in the first book so their interactions are fraught with tension. Their cases appear to be completely separate but due to a personal link the women are forced to interact. The book blurb mentions a link between the abandoned baby and the murder but this connection isn't made until two thirds of the way through the book.
Jane is incredibly anxious about her daughter Norah's new relationship. She relies on Steph to keep her up to date when Joe is mentioned in connection with the murder. Jane also has another personal item taking her attention: her young friend Thea is involved in a protest. But the lead protester is controlling and dismissive when another young woman goes missing.
The majority of the book deals with personal issues of the police officer which bend back towards the case at various points. Steph is having flashbacks about Cal and the past, whilst Jane hears some shocking truths about her late husband that creates personal turmoil. Both women act and react in an authentic way and I liked them both despite their flaws.
Murder Against The Odds is an engaging detective thriller due to the strong lead characters.
Murder Against The Odds is the third book in the Warwick and Bell series (I have read and reviewed the second book Murder Across The Lines). There are references to earlier events but it is not necessary to have read the previous books to understand the plot or characters.
Jane and Steph are great lead characters. Both are hard working, feisty, and loyal. But they rubbed each other up the wrong way in the first book so their interactions are fraught with tension. Their cases appear to be completely separate but due to a personal link the women are forced to interact. The book blurb mentions a link between the abandoned baby and the murder but this connection isn't made until two thirds of the way through the book.
Jane is incredibly anxious about her daughter Norah's new relationship. She relies on Steph to keep her up to date when Joe is mentioned in connection with the murder. Jane also has another personal item taking her attention: her young friend Thea is involved in a protest. But the lead protester is controlling and dismissive when another young woman goes missing.
The majority of the book deals with personal issues of the police officer which bend back towards the case at various points. Steph is having flashbacks about Cal and the past, whilst Jane hears some shocking truths about her late husband that creates personal turmoil. Both women act and react in an authentic way and I liked them both despite their flaws.
Murder Against The Odds is an engaging detective thriller due to the strong lead characters.
March 10, 2023
Tutor Jane Bell, widowed for six years with two grown up children, Patrick and Norah who is currently back living at home with her in Lincoln, has been a special constable for two years. Her first run in with DI Stephanie Warwick, an uptight officer with mental health problems, was not a hit but there has been a gradual thaw between the two since then. On the same night there are two shocking events. A man, Midlands coach driver Bernie Gore, is found murdered in a quiet street, being investigated by Steph and her partner DS Elias Harper, and a tiny abandoned baby is rescued by Jane and PC Tim Sterne from a park bandstand. Curiously a poker chip is found at both scenes. As Steph and Elias delve into Bernie’s past life of gambling and basically doing anything to get money to serve his addiction, Jane has a shock when she recognises the last person to be seen with him, someone close to home who is soon arrested for murder and once again she finds herself working with Steph.
Jane is instantly likeable, the sort of woman you’d want for your best friend. Steph, due to her past trauma, is brittle and much harder to get to know but I found I took to her more and more as the story progressed. This is an excellent police procedural with some great characters, in particular Elias and Allie. The plot is well laid out and suitably twisty, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. 5*
Jane is instantly likeable, the sort of woman you’d want for your best friend. Steph, due to her past trauma, is brittle and much harder to get to know but I found I took to her more and more as the story progressed. This is an excellent police procedural with some great characters, in particular Elias and Allie. The plot is well laid out and suitably twisty, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. 5*
February 6, 2023
Murder Against the Odds by Janice Frost is an unputdownable mystery full of twists. Special Constable Jane Bell is at the end of a late shift when she’s called out to investigate strange noises in a local park. She finds a wailing newborn baby girl dumped in a plastic storage box. That same night Detective Steph Warwick attends the murder of coach driver Bernie Gore, whose battered body is found in a narrow alleyway.
Do these two mysteries have anything in common? Hmm, I couldn't wait to find out. The action starts right away and keeps going until the surprising end. I liked the author's descriptions of the setting. I often felt like I was right next to the characters as they unraveled the story. The characters were well-written, believable, and interesting. This was a very good mystery that had me gasping out loud when various things were revealed or uncovered.
I would recommend this book and this author. I will check out more books by this author in the future.
A 4.5 out of 5 stars (rounded to 5).
#MURDERAGAINSTTHEODDS #NetGalley @JoffeBooks
Do these two mysteries have anything in common? Hmm, I couldn't wait to find out. The action starts right away and keeps going until the surprising end. I liked the author's descriptions of the setting. I often felt like I was right next to the characters as they unraveled the story. The characters were well-written, believable, and interesting. This was a very good mystery that had me gasping out loud when various things were revealed or uncovered.
I would recommend this book and this author. I will check out more books by this author in the future.
A 4.5 out of 5 stars (rounded to 5).
#MURDERAGAINSTTHEODDS #NetGalley @JoffeBooks
February 19, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this third novel featuring SPC Jane Bell and DI Steph Warwick.
Whilst Steph has her hands full trying to work out who could have wanted to murder Bernie Gore, a coach driver, Jane finds herself looking into the discovery of a new born baby found abandoned in a local park.
Although not something they would choose, they find themselves having to work together when links between to two cases are identified.
In the process Jane discovers more information which impacts on her own and her daughters life.
Steph finds she does have the ability to show empathy.
Yes she is still brusque and can be impatient with the people she has to deal with but I found myself liking her more as she and Jane find themselves having a better working relationship.
An absorbing read that I didn`t want to put down, plenty twists, lying witnesses, hidden relationships and a not so innocent victim all go to make this a great read.
An excellent murder thriller you don`t want to miss.
So easy for me to recommend.
Whilst Steph has her hands full trying to work out who could have wanted to murder Bernie Gore, a coach driver, Jane finds herself looking into the discovery of a new born baby found abandoned in a local park.
Although not something they would choose, they find themselves having to work together when links between to two cases are identified.
In the process Jane discovers more information which impacts on her own and her daughters life.
Steph finds she does have the ability to show empathy.
Yes she is still brusque and can be impatient with the people she has to deal with but I found myself liking her more as she and Jane find themselves having a better working relationship.
An absorbing read that I didn`t want to put down, plenty twists, lying witnesses, hidden relationships and a not so innocent victim all go to make this a great read.
An excellent murder thriller you don`t want to miss.
So easy for me to recommend.
November 5, 2023
I enjoyed this story with all the characters within. The main characters were Jane Bell and Steph Warwick.
Jane Bell is a special constable. While working one night her and her partner find a baby that has been left there. She want to look for the baby's mother. While looking for the mother she runs into another case that Steph Warwick is working on. She hopes that the detective will listen to her because they have not got along in the past.
Steph Warwick is a detective. She on a case to find the person that murder Bernie. While working the case Special constable Jane Bell call and tells her something that might help her solve the case.
This was a fun story. It had action, adventure, drama and suspense throughout. There are a lot of twist and turn throughout. It was hard for me to guess the murderer. There was a few giggles throughout to.
I received a complimentary copy via Netgalley. This is my honest unbiased opinions.
Jane Bell is a special constable. While working one night her and her partner find a baby that has been left there. She want to look for the baby's mother. While looking for the mother she runs into another case that Steph Warwick is working on. She hopes that the detective will listen to her because they have not got along in the past.
Steph Warwick is a detective. She on a case to find the person that murder Bernie. While working the case Special constable Jane Bell call and tells her something that might help her solve the case.
This was a fun story. It had action, adventure, drama and suspense throughout. There are a lot of twist and turn throughout. It was hard for me to guess the murderer. There was a few giggles throughout to.
I received a complimentary copy via Netgalley. This is my honest unbiased opinions.
February 27, 2023
Well...although I felt slightly out of the loop, not having read #1 and #2 Warwick & Bell, Ms. Frost does an excellent job of giving just enough exposition that those familiar won't be bored and those not get a sense of what came to be in terms of the characters' relationships in #murderagainsttheodds. I think that's tough to do sometimes, so kudos for that. I found Warwick to be a tad annoying but get the sense she's come a long way, and Bell is a good foil for her. They both have excellent instincts, and the storyline is really good, it kept my interest and I missed these folks when I was done. The biggest strength here besides the plot is that these characters could be us, they are so easy to relate to. Another win for @joffebooks - I really enjoy their catalogue.
P.S. Thanks to #netgalley for the ARC.
P.S. Thanks to #netgalley for the ARC.
March 26, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for the chance to read and review Murder Against The Odds by Janice Frost!
Do you like mystery? How about suspense? A few suspects and a twist or turn here and there? You will be in for a treat if you decide to pick this one up. Detective Inspector Stephanie Warwick and DI Elias bring you on a wild ride to solve the latest mystery!
Bernie Gore is a big time gambler, and turns up murdered.....who are the suspects? Perhaps the bar owner, where Bernie was last seen drinking and alive? His son? Special Constable Jane's daughters boyfriend(very suspicious....) Joe Mason, Mason's ex wife, Bernie's boss or coworker, maybe even the neighbor? Twists and bumps, an abandoned baby, blood in a sleeping bag, gambling, illegal money lending and more ....
Get to work to see your odds of determing the murderer, before they close the case!
Do you like mystery? How about suspense? A few suspects and a twist or turn here and there? You will be in for a treat if you decide to pick this one up. Detective Inspector Stephanie Warwick and DI Elias bring you on a wild ride to solve the latest mystery!
Bernie Gore is a big time gambler, and turns up murdered.....who are the suspects? Perhaps the bar owner, where Bernie was last seen drinking and alive? His son? Special Constable Jane's daughters boyfriend(very suspicious....) Joe Mason, Mason's ex wife, Bernie's boss or coworker, maybe even the neighbor? Twists and bumps, an abandoned baby, blood in a sleeping bag, gambling, illegal money lending and more ....
Get to work to see your odds of determing the murderer, before they close the case!
March 14, 2023
An enjoyable read that kept the reader guessing until the end.
It was an interesting story and we followed the police investigation as they identified leads and interviewed suspects. My only issue was that as this was my first book in the series I had obviously missed all the previous history and events between the two main female characters. This was not the fault of the book and relevant details were shared with the reader but as there was quite a lot of reference to the past it made me feel as though I had missed out. So my recommendation is to start with the first book in the series to get the full enjoyment.
It was an interesting story and we followed the police investigation as they identified leads and interviewed suspects. My only issue was that as this was my first book in the series I had obviously missed all the previous history and events between the two main female characters. This was not the fault of the book and relevant details were shared with the reader but as there was quite a lot of reference to the past it made me feel as though I had missed out. So my recommendation is to start with the first book in the series to get the full enjoyment.
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