Detective Beth Young has just joined the Cumbrian major crimes team when a body is found posed in a ritualistic manner – arms spread and graceful wings attached – at a crumbling castle in the hills of the Lake District.
The entire police force is on red alert. But Beth begins to feel she’s the only one who can follow the disturbing clues left by the twisted killer. Because she doesn’t think like everyone else. To Beth, crimes are puzzles she can solve. Even if real life is a little harder.
As more bodies are discovered in derelict stately homes across the Lake District, Beth knows she’s in a race against time.
But the killer is looking for another victim to add to his collection… Will Beth be able to save her? Or will he get there first?
My review
The first book in a new series is always a bit of a challenge. You have to get to know all the recurring characters and you have to concentrate on the story.
The main character here is DC Beth Young. What stood out was that she was so young and new to the team but she was also the most mature and clever of the group. It felt a bit strange to me. The way she acted was superb and would have suited the title of DI better.
But nevertheless, I really enjoyed the book. I love psychological thrillers, but I also like police procedurals. I am fascinated by the way the story unravels and the work needed to complete the puzzle and to finally put the culprit behind bars. It’s not a fast paced story, but little by little the steady stream changes into a rapid one.
I am looking forward to getting to know Young Beth a lot better and I hope she will become a DI soon, leading her own team.
It’s always a joy to see that more and more female detectives become leading ladies. 4 stars.
Thank you, Graham Smith, Bookouture and Netgalley.
About the author
After serving my time as a joiner, I have dug drains, slated roofs and built bridges to put food on the table. Since 2000 I have run a busy hotel and wedding venue near Gretna Green. I have a teenage son and when not working, reading or writing, I enjoy socialising with family and friends.
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