This the third book in the Fens series; I have only read books 2 and 3, but Ellis is now among my favorites in the police procedural genre. I read Shadow Over the Fens in June and reviewed it early last month.
When DI Nikki Galena returns to work after the death of her daughter, her team is involved in a locked room murder that is proving difficult.
Then a series of incidents begin targeting Galena and members of her team. The attacks begin with arson, and are all aimed at dismantling the lives of Galena, Joseph, Cat, and Dave. The attacks, vicious and personal, are complicated by just how much the anonymous enemy knows about each of their lives--what each team member values will be used to hurt them.
A number of comments are included about the way both crime and policing have changed as a result of technology, and we are all aware of how vulnerable governments, businesses, and individuals are to cyber crime. As wonderful as the internet is in many ways, it also presents dangers no one anticipated. Pandora's box is open and there is really no way to close it.
Once again, Ellis turns out a suspenseful, twisty crime novel with intriguing characters that continue to develop.
A little about Joy Ellis: "And now I live in a village in the Lincolnshire Fens with my partner, Jacqueline, and our two second generation Springer spaniels. My partner is a highly decorated retired police officer, and my harshest critic when it comes to police and judicial procedure. I have set my crime thrillers here in the misty fens because I sincerely love the remoteness and airy beauty of the marshlands. This area is steeped in superstitions and lends itself so well to murder!"
I admire authors who can make the setting almost another character, and Ellis' love of the Fens is evident.
Right now you can get the ebook for 99 cents or free with Kindle Unlimited. If you love mystery/crime/police procedurals, you will enjoy this series.
Read in July; review scheduled for Aug. 3
NetGalley/Joffe Books
Crime/Police Procedural. July 22, 2016. Print length: 302 pages.
Technology has certainly advanced quickly over recent years, and, as you said, with the internet, Pandora's Box has been opened. The book I just finished dealt with that as well, although not quite as effectively (and not in a particularly original way)--although it was still an entertaining book to read. That's beside the point though.
ReplyDeleteI am glad you are enjoying this series. It sounds like a strong one, and definitely one I will follow up with.
Unless a novel is set in the 1980's or before, the internet and cell phones are going to feature in some way. We have become accustomed to all of the technology gradually, but both the good guys and the bad guys depend on it now. I thought it was interesting that the author reflected on the changes in how the police fight crime and how criminals commit crimes. :)
DeleteI love atmospheric novels...especially when set in an area I'm only vaguely familiar with. This sounds like a series I need to look into. Nice review.
ReplyDeleteI have read only a few books that make the fens a part of the story, but this series does a great job. Actually, the previous book gave more description, but this one also shows the way those who love the area feel about it.
DeleteI love a good police procedural and this sounds like a very intense read. Will check out this series. Thanks, Jenclair!
ReplyDeleteI am really enjoying both characters and setting in this series!
DeleteI just went over to Amazon and got it! You know I love a good mystery so I'm excited to check this one. Great review!
ReplyDeleteI hope you like it, Iliana!
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