Book Description:
An old house. A fire. Two corpses… DI Charley Mann returns in this gripping crime thriller.
West Yorkshire DI Charley Mann is called for what seems a routine job. Prior to demolition a deserted manor house appears to have been the target of an arson attack.
But something isn’t right.
The house has a dark history – and a dark present. When the remains of two bodies are discovered hidden inside, it soon emerges they were murdered decades apart. Who are they? What are their connections to the house? Why were they killed? And what is the connection to the fire? Amongst the ashes, Charley is soon drawn into a web of deceit and violent plots.
The ghosts of the past can be all too real. Face them at your peril, because what goes around, comes around…
Written by smash TV hit Happy Valley’s story advisors, and with the benefit of decades of real police experience, Condemned is perfect for fans of LJ Ross, Joy Ellis and Faith Martin.
My Thoughts:
I absolutely loved Payback, the first book in the DI Charley Mann series, so couldn’t wait to see what the authors would bring to us next. Readers diving into this book first I don’t think will have any issues as the story itself is contained but would highly recommend reading the previous novel solely because it’s a great read.
There is something about old properties that has your mind wondering about the people who lived there and it’s history. Crownest is one such building that has sadly been neglected but is riddled with it’s own skeletons in more ways than one! I was so caught up in discovering the history of this house as well as the people who had inhibited it years before and could wholly understand Charley’s fascination with it.
Charley is a fab protagonist. She doesn’t like to be beaten and works hard to make sure no stone is left unturned and that every case is solved. I was on tenterhooks as to whether Charley would uncover the deep secrets of this derelict manor house or if they would go uncovered. Of course you will have to read the book for yourself to find out as there will be no spoilers from me!
Condemned is a great police procedural novel that takes the reader into the heart of a crime investigation. I’ve said it before and will say it again that the experiences of the authors from their own professions, give their books a certain edge above others in this genre. It makes for an enthralling read whilst still delivering on the thrill aspect. There are even a few unexpected surprises instore! Highly recommended.
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