From: PiAnn, Helsinki, Finland - 31 Dec 2008 Beneath the Bleading

truly kept a veteran awake After two decades of reading crime fiction, I had grown suspicious of the cover blurb "will keep you up all night". Beneath the Bleeding was fully up to the challenge and truly kept me reading till the final page, feeling disappointed that this wonderful thought-provoking tale came to an end. I am hungering for more, particularly on the infamously tough Mrs Hill. Bravo for Val's courage to take on the Imperial Star Troopers!

From: schrodinger, Manchester - 26 Dec 2008 A Darker Domain

Very Disappointed Loved Val's other audiobooks but this one was just read too fast by the reader and I had to give up on it. Hopefully if it's brought out in unabridged format the reader will slow down and add some feeling. A disappointed Val fan

From: The Reader, London - 13 Dec 2008 A Place of Execution

a thoughtful read I agree with the general tone of the reviews for A Place of Execution but the book would have benefited from some serious editing.It was overly long and with a tighter control it could effortlessly have been at least 100 pages shorter. Its a splendid read though and it captures the period well .It has a strong narrative and the characters are well drawn although some are a little stale and paper thin and occasionally sterotypical- gritty policeman, witch-like rural old ladies and hated newcomers-which spoils the overall effect and atmosphere. The plot was a little predictable and the ending was rather a disappointment and far too drawn out but the writer was clearly heavily engaged with the characters and seemed reluctant to let them go. I enjoyed the book but it was simply far too long and often repetitive.

From: Lyn Blanchard, Scunthorpe Lincolnshire England - 14 Nov 2008 Beneath the Bleading

I kept trying to outguess the team but failed A really good yarn. having watched the series "Wire in the blood" I kept imagining Robson Green's voice in the script. Two questions for Val please. How did Rachel have the knowledge to presumably add or select "the third component (of the bomb) taped between the ignition and the timer?" .Yousef assembled the bomb but didn't have full knowledge of it's components. Also, could Val please refer Tony to a Psychoanalyst so he could sort out his emotions in order to have a long-term romantic and sexual relationship with Carol? Finally, thanks for the story Val, I will definitely be buying more in the series featuring Tony Hill.

From: Paul Bamber, Houston, Texas - 09 Nov 2008 A Place of Execution

Great Book, well written - until the ending! I loved the first part of the book. Very well written, great charachters, wonderful description of the era and the atmosphere. But, the end blows it. Too huge a coincidence that George's son is marrying Allison's daughter. Too many unanswered questions. Hawkins would have confessed to the other child abuse to save his neck. If he brought that up, police would have looked more closey at the possibility of the villagers setting him up. That said, I will definately read more of Val McDermids work.

From: TC, Kingston upon Thames, England - 02 Nov 2008 A Darker Domain

my first Val - need to know more! fabulous - never read her before, but this is unputdownable - kind of remember the miners strike but too young to know its significance - her writing almost makes you feel ashamed that you weren't as aware as you should have been - very pacy,thought provoking and gripping. Will be reading more, but can anyone tell me - given the hints of Karen Pirie's past, has she featured in other books? Can't find a mention of her in the synopsis' available on line.

From: Duffy, Northumberland, England - 26 Oct 2008 A Darker Domain

Left me disappointed A big let down compared to all her other books. Normally I hate to have to put one of her books down but this one I found myself looking for an excuse to leave it. It was very dis-jointed and I could not engage with any of the characters ergo I did not care what happened to them by the end of the book. However, I remain loyal to Val McDermid and will continue to seek out and read all her future books because over the years she has given me hours of excellent reading.

From: lizzie, melbourne aust.ex glasgow - 25 Oct 2008 A Darker Domain

val you are a gem just finished the darker domain. loved every word. nice to see a connection to an earlier book so that means i will have to read that again. keep up the good work. whens the next one coming out.

From: san, ashton - 12 Oct 2008 Select

i have read all your book they are all brill i cant choose a fave! i wait with open breath for your new books as i have read them all, and recomend them always your brill

From: Mary Meade, Vermont United States - 05 Oct 2008 The Last Temptation

could not find a place were I could put it asideand go about my work the in depth character of the people in her stories almost make it seem like you know them or someone like them.I always have my own version of the ending but hers always surprises me.

From: Wqtqrnko, azWhMWsiiZDYvjNb - 27 Sep 2008 Select

CunlLbInOVMG Hello good day

From: Lisa Marie Moorhead, Bedlington, England - 23 Sep 2008 The Wire In The Blood

Just started reading Val. Great ! Just finished reading the Mermaids Singing and have just started Wire in the Blood. I am an avid reader of crime novels and I am over the moon someone referred me to these novels. Normally I do not usually like to watch a film or tv programme before I have read the book but in this instance where Tony is concerned I feel comforted by the fact that I can picture his face and know his personality (whoever casted Robson Green knows their stuff). Cant't wait for more

From: Growler, Melbourne Australia - 23 Sep 2008 A Place of Execution

Totally gripping If you can remember where you were when Kennedy was shot, where you were when John Lennon was shot, where it was you watched the 1966 World Cup Final, well, you are obviously above a certain age. But if you can remember where you were when you read "A Place Of Execution", that recollection of time and place has more to do with the atmosphere Val McDermid created in your mind then any effect external events may have had on you. I can remember the streetside Restaurant I took to every lunchtime in order to immerse myself in that world, redolent of small villages in Derbyshire and the Moors murders. This ia a superb book and although I have read just about everything Val has written since the Kate Brannigan books, this for me is the finest

From: sally, Brighton, England - 11 Sep 2008 The Mermaids Singing

A real page turner This being the first in the series of the Hill/jordan books , thought i'd read it after The Torment Of Others. I really enjoyed it! It was good to learn the beginings of Tony's and Carols relationship.I have seen the T.V series adaptation, the book was by far more satisfying, darker and 'meatier'.I look forward to reading more in this series.

From: Rachael, Knottingley, West Yorkshire - 10 Sep 2008 The Grave Tattoo

Murder, mystery spiced with history. Val McDermid is a mistress of her craft, just as Rankin is the master. The Grave Tattoo, a standalone in amongst the great Tony Hill and Carol Jordan series, takes us back through ages to the time of Wordsworth, the famous case of Mutiny on the Bounty and whether or not a body discovered buried in the hills could be that of Fletcher Christian. I could smell and taste the air in the Lakes, so vivid is the picture that Val creates. I was so lost in it all, the ending crept up on me. I was sad to finish!

From: Can't do without my thrillers, Ballina NSW Australia - 07 Sep 2008 Select

I just love a thriller and am always more than pleased with Val McDermid's work. My only problem is finding books that I have not read yet? Am always searching at the second hand shops, library and book stores. I guess some are out of print. Can't wait to read 'A Darker Domain'

From: Marie Dangercop, Paris - 24 Aug 2008 The Torment of Others

I'm in love with your duo ! I'm a all new because i've read the books with Carol and Tony in only one month, during my holidays in july, 2008. I'm totally crazy about them ! silence of the lamb and seven are my "cup of tea" now i've got your serie ! thanks thousand time just one only regreat : the time for the traduction of beneath the bleeding : nothing yet for the moment !and it makes me angry !!!

From: sally, Brighton, England - 22 Aug 2008 The Torment of Others

loved it I thought this book was really well done . The story was a page turner. I liked how the different relationships wove in and out of the narrative.The characters were really well drawn, it was easy to imagine them. This was my favorite book of Vals so far, Iv'e only read 3!,but this has wetted my appetite for more. Pacey, gruesome and poigniant.

From: Farhan Ata Arain, Lahore, Pakistan - 11 Aug 2008 Beneath the Bleeding

Excellent plot.. wonderful climax! This was the first book that I've read by Ms. Val, and I must say I loved every bit of it. Especially Tony Hill's deduction regarding the killers. Just one quick thing.. usually Pakistanis don't keep the name 'Raj'. That name belongs usually to Indian families. I don't want to give out spoilers, so won't say more but the plot is fabulously knit and climax excellent. Will definitely read more of your work.

From: Alison, York, England - 08 Jul 2008 A Place of Execution

Loved the book, shame about the ending I put off reading this for a while because of the subject of the Moors Murders, but in fact they're very minor here and so all was well. I loved it, simple as that - pace and suspense and everything a good book should have. I found the ending a little bit of a cop out and suddenly very, very obvious, but up until literally the last 20 pages or so, I found it absolutely enthralling. Good stuff.

From: jellybean, wirral - 26 Jun 2008 The Last Temptation

best book i have read in a long time I have alway been put off watching the tv series as I don't rate robson green. However the book is excellent. The characters came alive in the text and but I couldn't visualise Robson Green as Tony.

From: balgair, scotland - 05 May 2008 The Wire In The Blood

Baffled and slightly disappointed First book of Val McDermid I have read. Picked it up on impulse in supermarket. I`m baffled or have I missed something. Exciting read but on reflection where is the use of DNA? Surely this should have been explored. Will try another one of her books but not a patch on James Patterson.

From: Betsy Gray, Ohio, USA - 23 Apr 2008 Beneath the Bleeding

Held my attention from page one. Val McDermid, Tony Hill and Carol Jordan just keep getting better and better. The story line is intriguing and Tony's thought processes as always are interesting. Nice touch giving us a peek into his background. And although you know from the beginning that things aren't as it seems, you're kept guessing until the end. I loved it.

From: seesthru, Pensacola FL USA - 21 Apr 2008 Select

I must read this book! I read teh chapter 3 excerpt. and I HAVE to know!! Is the child suffering at the hands of the grandfather Tony HIll himself? I mean, is seems exactly that way, but you never know with excerpts! If it is Tony who has undergone such cruelty as a child, does anyone cry for that child?

From: Malvina, Nontron, France - 07 Mar 2008 The Mermaids Singing

awsome! I'd not be able to read about such torture scenes if they were real, because they're absolutely gruesome. But as fiction, I have to admit I became addicted! I also just finished "a wire in the blodd" and ordered "the torment of others" : I guess there must be a dark side in me, really! But this is no reading for the easily scared.

From: Sonya, Alaska, U.S.A. - 20 Jan 2008 Dead Beat

Glued to the book! Its a very good book as it keeps you wondering throughout... There's one thing I wanted to confirm.. Actually I had to stop reading when I was half way through due to my exams and then I continued with some vague memories of what I had read.. I just wanted to ask is Neil the killer?

From: Angelika, Adelaide Australia - 18 Jan 2008 The Mermaids Singing

OMG! Loved it!! Like most others, I was gob-smacked by this book - started reading it on the bus home from work one night and put it down at 4pm the next day. Am now working my way through the rest of her work. Hope its not a stupid question - but does anyone know how the title relates to the book? Is it a metaphor for something?

From: V. Gruntz, Little Britain, Ontario, Canada - 06 Nov 2007 Beneath the Bleeding

Absolutely Fantastic! A wonderful read!!! The characters are so very real -- flaws and all. Fantastic plot that kept me guessing right to the very end. I've never read any of Val McDermid's books before but I will now be on the lookout for more.

From: kirsty, perth, australia - 12 Oct 2007 The Mermaids Singing

FANTASTIC.. COULDNT PUT IT DOWN!! WOW... WHAT CAN I SAY... I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN AND WHEN I GOT TO THE END I WANTED MORE!! I HAD TO GO OUT AND BUY HE WIRE IN THE BLOOD. ABSOLUTELY FANTASIC BOOK... EVERYTHING THAT VAL WRITES IS WESOME FROM P.I KATE TO DR TONY HILL AND DCI JORDAN. THRILLING BOOK FROM START TO FINIS.. I LOOK FORWARD TO READING EVERYTHING YOU HAVE WRITTEN (HARD TO FIND IN AUSTRALIA) THANKYOU FOR THE GREAT READS!!!+++++++

From: Peter A, Derby, England - 26 Aug 2007 Beneath the Bleeding

A thoroughly enjoyable and brilliant psychological procedural Val McDermind gets better every time and so do her characters. Beneath the Bleeding is fresh, contemporary, cinematic and deeply thought-provoking. It's a big story, and the climax is a superb masterpiece of psychology, tight plotting and impossibly good writing. I defy anyone not to like this book. Tony Hill is far more expertly drawn in the hands of Val McDermid than of any TV director, and this book finally gives us some hints and revelations as to his past. The interplay between Tony Hill and DCI Carol Jordon is sketched beautifully and deeply nuanced in subtext. For me, this is the best book of the series. But it is both the plot and the prose combined that make this a must-read book. I could write that "I couldn't put it down", but that wouldn't be true. Sometimes I had to put it down to think about some of the concepts explored or clever phrases casually uttererd by one of the characters (on one or two occasions I admit to consulting a dictionary to get a word or context definition). The plot twists come fast and slick and there is no let-up in the pace. The procedural elements, which concern rank and masculine officialdom are enlightening and entertaining and the prevailing sense of justice carries throughout, as always. More than just a ripping good yarn, it's a riveting exploration into our deepest and darkest thoughts of envy and revenge. Spooky stuff. Lots of wry smiles and raised eyebrows from the reader at intelligent comments on the way.

From: Alice, woodsetts, s. yorkshire, u.k. - 22 Aug 2007 The Distant Echo

read it in a few hours - amazin this was the first val book i read n i absolutely love her writin style and the fact that shes local[ish] and writes in and around yorkshire. iv tried readin other authors but find none as gripin and brilliantly written, i have to now search high and low to get the books i havent yet read......

From: Davey, Holliston, Massachusetts USA - 30 Jul 2007 The Distant Echo

Complex, wonderful characters, This book competes with A Place of Execution (also by McDermid), as one of the best written murder mysteries I have come across. Four St. Andrews students drunkenly stumble across the dying body of a bar waitress, just before Christmas 1978. From that moment on, their lives are disrupted and nearly destroyed as they become the prime suspects. The story follows the four friends, as they attempt to lead normal lives over the next 25 years. They are hounded by the dead girls brothers. The police choose to ignore their stories (which are not completely true). They are frustrated at the lack of progress in the investigation. As new investigative techniques are created, the young men keep hoping that they will be exonerated, but lost evidence hampers the solution to the heinous crime. A secret held by the dead girls family becomes exposed decades after the original murder, much to the chagrin of her brothers. The distrust and hatred that wells from the small community has the young men in despair and it changes them dramatically. The best and worst of their character comes out, and others become unwitting victims. There are very few flaws in this novel, but even minor ones can impact the veracity of a well crafted story. In one instance, the murderer rents a car in California, but doesnt use a credit card. It is unlikely that one could rent a car in the United States without a credit card. Although the author might find a way around that issue, I dont think its a minor point. Part of the investigation involves a private detective, who might have uncovered some details that would have driven the story down a different road. The only other problem, if it is a problem, is that Rosies murderer becomes rather obvious well before the end of the book. How her murderer will affect the actions and eventually the destruction of another is not so obvious. The character development is marvelous, as Ziggy, Weird, Mondo, and Gilly, along with the detectives, and other associated characters, evolve into cunning, sympathetic, or pathetic figures.

From: georgie, Bonnie Scotland (aye right!!) - 11 Jul 2007 Killing The Shadows

Absolutely brilliant!!! The first book i've ever read by Val...got it from the school library...now totally on the look out to buy it and read her others!!

From: Stefan Vogt, Munich, Germany - 20 Jun 2007 Killing The Shadows

A one-night book There is not much to say, this is definitely one of Val's best books. The only sad thing to say is, that it is oviously not the start of a series. The described characters sure have the potential for a similar series as the one with Tony Hill. Maybe somebody tells Ms McDermid about my coment...

From: Peter Broadhurst, wilmslow - 17 Jun 2007 Killing The Shadows

once started, I had to finish it in one read This is the first book I have read by Val. I am now on the look-out for more. The plot was magnificently pieced together, in a manner that was totally credible.

From: Fred, Norfolk Island - 04 Feb 2007 The Grave Tattoo

Excellent whodunnit This is not a review in the usual sense: a few comments though. First, the characters seemed a little two-dimensional. Secondly, it was really curious that the author did not mention Norfolk Island once despite that island's close connection with the Fletcher Christian saga- even at the end when River had searched for his descendants on Pitcairn (logical) and New Zealand (reasonable- but there are hundreds of descendants on nearby Norfolk island). The interspecion of Christian's and Wordsworth's narratives at the start of each chapter was a nice touch.

From: Helen, Hemel Hempstead - 16 Jan 2007 The Grave Tattoo

Worth the time I bought this book as soon as it was published as I am a really big fan of Val's. It took me quite some time to get around reading it because I started the first few chapters a couple of times and lost interest. I am glad I made the effort because this is a great story and shows the versatility of Val's work. The historic angle was well researched and kept the readers interest, there was a couple of other story lines going along at the same time and though I did guess the outcome at the end one thing you can be sure of is Val McDermid does not resort to cliches. A good all round read but I cannot wait until the next Tony Hill book comes out.

From: Sue Marie Stevens, Phoenix, Arizona, United States - 04 Jan 2007 The Mermaids Singing

Could NOT put it down! Looking for a book to read-I hurriedly grabbed "Torment of Others" off the stand in a local drug store-not having heard of Ms McDermid. I was immensely gratified to not only devour this book, but, to get more of her great stories. I have a dictionary of British Slang and Colloquial Expressions which helps at times, but, even without that, I know that I would still love her thrillers just the same! I LOVE her stories and hate it when they end! I'm so glad that I discovered her-absolutely the best!

From: Reg, Singapore - 29 Oct 2006 Select

Fabulous! I never thought I would be spending time reading and borrowing books from the library every now and then. It all started when i found The Torment of Others at a book fair - where I intended to buy only comics. Intrigued by the synopsis at the back of the book and wanted to know what exactly lies in the book with such an attractive tittle (at least to me), I bought it and never regretted buying it. I borrowed The Wire in the Blood followed by The Torment of Others, not knowing i was borrowing them in the wrong chronological order. - They were, nonetheless, fabulous reads! The references to events that happened in the books before the one i was reading just makes me want to re-read them all again, and in chronological order. - Well, and when i get my hands on The Last Temptation. The writing, storyline, plot are just brilliant! Though I've fallen in love with the characters, Carol and especially Tony, I would want to read all of the books by Val. I simply love her writing style and I'd want more of Tony Hill books. I just love getting into the minds of the criminals, and in Val's style.

From: Margaret, Halifax, West Yorkshire - 28 Oct 2006 The Mermaids Singing

Harrowingly mind blowing! Found this book whilst on holiday and was sucked in immediately with the gripping yet horrendous detail that Val has written about. It kept me riveted to the last page and left me breathless and wanting more - even though it seems to be based around my locality, I was absolutely fascinated to the end! Excellent read, completely unputdownable! This was my first read of a Val McDermid book, but it definitely wont be my last. Would recommend this to anyone who can bear to read about the sickening mindset of novel criminals - er, it is just a novel - right?!

From: Highbrow, UK - 19 Oct 2006 A Place of Execution

Predictable In common with most of Val's readers, I conclude that Marie Marr, United Kingdom must be pig thick. "A Place of Execution" is predictable from the beginning and easy to see where the tale is going. No need to wade through the whole book, just read the last five pages.

From: Marie Marr, United Kingdom - 15 Oct 2006 A Place of Execution

an engrossing story. A classic crime novel, that becomes more enthralling as the reader progresses through the shoreline. Both the central and peripheral characters are well defined and believable, which the reader will find difficult not to empathise with.

From: Mine, Singapore - 30 Sep 2006 The Wire In The Blood

OK Good story, spoilt by bad grammar - no number/noun agreement, ignorance of possessives, incorrect use of demonstrative articles are just a few of the many mistakes throughout. However like all his stories Val never strays far from the pong of lesbianism.

From: Sacha, Kampala, Uganda - 07 Aug 2006 Killing The Shadows

Its Very gripping Well its a very good book..i cudnt put it down til i finished...its one of the best books i have read. It put in my suspense til the end..it had a good plot...i'm going to read it again.

From: sophie, manchester - 28 Jul 2006 Select

Couldn't put it down Another fab book from my favourite author. she just keeps on getting better!

From: russell, sarfend - 09 May 2006 The Distant Echo

Too long - and Val can do much better than this! Basically this is a whodunit of 561 pages, and I spotted who did it within less than 20. Normally I'm not that good at guessing such things so this has to be a weak element to the story. It removed most of the suspense for me, because I had to read over 500 more pages knowing the ending. And I was never in any doubt. A young girl is murdered back in 1978, and at the time the killer is not found although there are several key suspects, in particular the four students who discovered the body. Then we jump forwards to 2003 and the case is re-opened, with the occasional new twist here and there. What spoilt things for me was the absence of a strong, key central character. Previously I read The Torment of Others by the same author which included two of her most popular heroes Carol Jordan and Tony Hill. I think novels are made or broken by the depth of their central characters, and it's disappointing in this case because I already knew that McDermid is more than capable of creating them. The Distant Echo is compromised by the absence of any truly interesting characters and by its excessive length. Having said that I have confidence in the writer, I have about six other novels of hers that I have yet to read and I am sure that I will have more positive things to say about most if not all of them. Val McDermid is one of Britain's leading literary ladies and I can only suggest that The Distant Echo is a mild blip and normal service will soon be resumed. It's not bad, but not as good as her Hill/Jordan or Brannigan series.

From: russell, sarfend - 09 May 2006 A Place of Execution

Riveting, absorbing, entertaining and satisfying Val McDermid has written some outstanding novels (The Torment of Others, Wire in the Blood and Mermaids Singing come to mind) but somehow, somehow this one probably tops the lot. It is utterly immaculate in its (forgive the pun) execution, in its structure, in its characterisation and in its capacity to surprise and even deceive the reader. I need not go over the summary of the story here as so many others have already done that, but can I just repeat the words of the Daily Telegraphs Gerald Kaufman, who stated that It may be that McDermid will write better novels than this in the future, but I do not see how. I concur with that view absolutely. For those of you who remember seeing Hitchcocks Vertigo the first time, you will probably recall wanting to see the film all over again immediately, realising at the end that most of what had gone before was not as you had assumed. So it follows that in A Place of Execution, despite admirably detailed accounts of the investigations into the case of a missing teenage girl back in 1963, which in effect come to a seemingly satisfying conclusion three-quarters of the way through the book, the final quarter which unravels itself 35 years later in 1998 manages to completely dismantle our earlier belief that justice had been done and made me want to read the 1960s part of this book again to see if I could have guessed what was coming. Of course, I already knew that there was going to be a twist to this tale and I took much pleasure in taking guesses as to what it would be; a miscarriage of justice was the most obvious, but that cannot be said to be true because for all human reasons other than legal, justice was clearly served even if there were some unexpectedly high prices to be paid, it later emerged, on the part of more than one victim. This is storytelling at its best. The characters are so real that I feel that I want to contact them and talk about their experiences. I led myself to understand that A Place of Execution is based on a true story, in which case it only serves to underline that truth is invariably stranger and more convincing than fiction. There are some stories that just cannot be made up, and I reckon that this is one of them. Knowing the story was based on real-life events had left this novel on my library shelves at home for more than a year what a mistake that was, and I discovered this within a handful of pages. It has few flaws, it has been written by a masterful and confident writer at the top of her game and I recommend it without reservation. If you havent read it yet, then do not hesitate : order your copy today. And while youre at it, buy at least a half-dozen more Val McDermid novels, because in the world of suspense, mystery and crime writing she really has very few peers.

From: russell, sarfend - 09 May 2006 The Torment of Others

High Five It's always a pleasure when I take a chance on a new novelist and it pays off as well as it did here. Val McDermid is, I now know, one of our best writers and I won't hesitate to buy any book in the future with her name on the cover. In The Torment of Others, you'll get everything you want from a thriller and more : intelligent characters, gripping imagery, a powerful plot, clever pacing and just entertainment all round. The lead characters Jordan and Hill are very much individuals whose personalities and concerns are so well described that we almost feel that we know them; the key point is that we can easily believe in them. The side-plot of their 'relationship' is actually intriguing, dealt with subtle aplomb by their creator and cleverly left unfinished within the context of this story so that we can carry on where they left off in the next one. The main story line of this book is quite daringly graphic in its description without being gory for its own sake. It just leaves you wondering "Jeez, what a way to go"...and I'm not a woman! This is a writer of high intellect, vivid imagination and the bringing together of those rare skills makes for very enjoyable reading. Call me a fan.

From: russell, sarfend - 09 May 2006 The Wire In The Blood

Outstanding Val McDermid is one of the very best thriller writers of our time, and although I have only just finished reading this 1997 novel, it must rank as representative of VM at the peak of her abilities. Wire in the Blood is really hard to fault, and its one of the very few books that I have read that isnt something to do just to pass the time - no, its worthy of top choice on any list of means of entertainment. Cancel all appointments and read this first, its amazing value! Val is confident enough to name the killer on the first page yet develop and sustain tension for the reader until the very last one. Furthermore she has the ability to create and develop several characters that the reader can truly believe in, and build up a sense of strong like or dislike for more than one. The bad guy is one Jacko Vance, our feelings of hatred for him perhaps cleverly manipulated by the author by way of his iconic status as an adored public hero within the context of the story. The question is how will he be stopped? Fortunately his adversaries are the Hill-Jordan team, which might sound a little Formula One for anybody new to this series but in fact Home Office profiler/psychologist Dr Tony Hill and DCI Carol Jordan are in every sense a well-matched pairing, each with their own wardrobe skeletons and worthy of keen reader attention be they working alone or together. Its perhaps worth mentioning that Tony Hill is possibly the only male character in this story who comes out with any sense of respect or integrity, outnumbered as he is by several shining female roles. Even then, his potential status as Leading Man is undermined by his apparent impotence and subsequent inability to consummate the relationship that exists between he and Carol Jordan, who we assume has no such incapacities. There are more than a few lesbian references or characters which does call to question the accordant leanings of the writer, which I occasionally found distracting, but thats nitpicking in truth this is a taut, well-paced thriller that makes for a great introduction to anyone new to Val McDermid. I own all four of the Hill-Jordan novels but unfortunately I have read them in the wrong chronological order.just my luck to begin with the most recent (The Torment of Others), with its references to events in Berlin that I was yet to discover in the third in the series (The Last Temptation). Thats what Im reading right now immediately after finishing Wire in the Blood, and its every bit as good as the others. Val McDermid is without doubt one of my favourite writers of crime thrillers and I recommend her work unreservedly.

From: Trish, Townsville, Australia - 25 Apr 2006 The Torment of Others

BRILLIANT I'd seen "Wire in the Blood" on the television and thought it was pretty damn good so when I went to the book shop and found this book I immediately went home and sat down to read it, I didn't get up from that position for seven hours whilst my eyes flicked across the pages as fast as possible, needless to say dinner got burnt, the cat wasn't let out, the dog didn't go for a walk but I got one heck of a good read. The writing itself was brilliant, the storyline was great, twists came out of nowhere and left me reeling but most of all the two protagonists were realistic and compelling and real to life. Top notch, I look forward to the next Carol Jordan/Tony Hill book.

From: Sophie, Berlin, Germany - 12 Apr 2006 The Torment of Others

a thrilling book for a long night!!!!! After I watched the TV programm I wanted to have more from Val! I loved Wire In The Blood and of course Robson Green, but in German it wasnt as funny as in English so I bought the DVDs! but after I read the first book of val I was sure I wanted to have the others! I think the torment of others is one of the greatest books i ever read! it took me two nights to read it! the stories about Tony and Carol are like drugs: I just cant get enough of it! I really liked the relations-ship between Tony and Carol! and of course it was absolutely facinating to read! so keep it up Val!! Ill read every book you write!

From: Maja Bellash, Folkestone, England - 09 Apr 2006 The Torment of Others

a sad move away from positive images of women Having just heard about Val's being on a very short list of highly influential voices in publishing, it is a sad turn of events that her characters increasingly reflect stereotypical and male-biased views of women. Where Lindsay Gordon and Kate Brannigan integrate images of lesbian characters into their immediate surroundings in a positive way, in The Torment of Others, the reader is not only offered images of a lesbian police officer being tortured and who is the 'bad guy' committing such atrocities, another lesbian character. Not only is this plot line hardly believable, but it also panders to male fantasies about lesbian women and reinforces suspicion and marginalisation of them as a group. Val apparently commented on her being in such a powerful position by saying she had to be careflu how she uses her power. I would say that avoiding conforming to male dominated perspectives in her novels might be food for thought. The change in her writing over the years exhibits and ever increasing conformity to what the masses want than the innovative and radical visions of women's lives which, it seems to me, made her so popular to begin with. What price power?

From: Fridolina, Finland - 02 Dec 2005 The Last Temptation

Best book I have ever read! I have been watching the Wire in the blood-series on telly for as long as they have shown them here in Finland. And I think it is a brilliant serial. A few weeks ago I accidentally came across a book about Tony Hill and Carol Jordan and I decided to read it. After only a few pages I was hooked. I read and read and finished the book in a matter of days. It was thrilling and scary, but in some places it had a great deal of warmth in it too. It was the best book I have ever read! I will definately read the rest of the McDermid-books as soon as I can lay my hands on them. I recommend The last temptation warmly! If you find it, please read it, I promise you will not regret it!

From: goose, barcelona - 12 Nov 2005 Select

is davey kerr the same one fae sauchenbush?

From: shireen, india - 10 Oct 2005 The Distant Echo

gripping... an amazing read.... i have never read a mystery before but i couldnt put this one down before i finished it!! i recommend it for anyone who enjoys mystery... the killer was predictable after a while but the basic plot was too interesting so that blend in... over all... very interesting...

From: Paul Douglas, Australia - 30 Aug 2005 The Wire In The Blood

damage I have read the wire in the blood,I have read hundreds like it in terms of story,although it is well written,but my point is,how does a writer any writer of this type of fiction,deal with the things they are writing about,the torture and murder, of young women,in quite realistic detail to a more or less degree,while in reality it does happen frequently,right now somewhere a nightmare is actually happening in much the same way to a woman, so a writer doesnt have to make much up,but they are writing it for money and entertainment,I know one could apply this to almost anything and one might say,nothing would ever get written or filmed if this rule applied,but upon reading this book,it just struck me about our values,and particularly the values of a writer who deals in this stuff,something about responsibility to oneself and other people,wheres the payment for it,or who pays,and in what way and how,its not just stories,because it happens all the time to particularly women and children,are they the ones who pay inevitably with often their lives? So that writers can write,films can be made? We can be entertained?Is there a link somehow,one can say it would happen anyway without books and films.Yes thats true of course,but is it right or good to offer it up like this,even as fiction,when we know its not.

From: Al, Wales - 04 Aug 2005 The Torment of Others

A 'CAN'T PUT IT DOWN' READ Tony and Carol are back in this long overdue and very well written story. On the trail of another serial killer, they become immersed in a thick fug of complex and elusive characters. Amongst the murder and mayhem, Carol struggles to cope. Tony however, is at his manic best. This is a real spellbinder that I read in just two days. Absolutely brilliant!

From: Margery, Nashua, NH USA - 18 Jul 2005 Hostage to Murder

On my "keep till I die" book shelf I've always admired Val McDermid's writing, but have to admit that until I began watching the "Wire in the Blood" series on BBC Cable here in America, I did not really become a dyed-in-the-wool fan. I've re-read the Tony Hill series that I had read previously and enjoyed so as to be caught up in "The Torment of Others' in a proper frame of mind. This book is like marvelous icing on a very tasty cake. All the other Tony Hill books were excellent appetizers for this latest story. Val McDermid has become my favorite writer now that Colin Dexter has taken Inspector Morse to his final resting place.

From: Ian Banjer, Brisbane Qld Australia - 24 Jun 2005 Kick Back

Excellent Great read 1 of 6 in Best Reads Thiller Series Courier Mail News Paper Qld. Australia Read Kick Back Instant fan loved the English flavour of Manchester the characters and the plot cannot wait to get hold of another story

From: John L. Gibson, Ancaster, Ontario, Canada - 13 Jun 2005 The Distant Echo

I've found my new favourite author and not just because she's a Scot Move over Harlan Coben, Jeffrey Deaver, Jonathan Kellerman, James Patterson and Robert Crais. I've just discovered Val McDermid and she's my new favourite crime writer. While I had the ending figured out about two-third of the way through The Distant Echo, it remained an engrossing, couldn't-put-it-down thriller to the last page. From one Scot (and former journalist) to another, my congratulations to Val and rest assured I'll be buying everything she has ever written and everything she has yet to write.

From: jeanette romani, leeds, west yorkshire. - 01 Jun 2005 Dead Beat

fantastic, I bought the book as i was going on holiday, Just took a lucky dip out of the crime fiction section, Needless to say i was hooked.As soon as i got home i bought the full collection of Kate Brannigan adventures. Val Mcdermid is amazing, Im still working my way through the books and dont intend to stop untill ive read them all, Keek writing Val,

From: Craig Fraser, Haddington, Scotland - 19 May 2005 The Torment of Others

Absolutely Enthralling Having been on holiday I hate sunbathing and sitting around. However!! I got this book from the Book swap at the complex and couldn't put it down. My bum hit the sunlounger, in the shade of the umbrella, and i sat for 8 hours and finished it in one sitting. Never read a book that got me so involved so easily. I am a police officer and usually steer clear of work based subjects, however i find myself on this website looking for more of the same. Thanks for a thorougly enjoyable day in/out of the sunshine.

From: Hayley, Sheffield, England - 18 May 2005 Select

intreguing and frightening O wow! The torment of Others is Val's best book to date!!! I read it while doing some volantary work in Albania last summer inbetween teaching english and experiencing albanian life and culture and I really struggled to put it down. The plot is very surprising with some great twists, and I have to admit some parts did make me feel a little squeemish, even though I am quite unshockable so this book is not for the faint hearted! Nice work Val, keep going, see you at the lesbian arts festival later this year!

From: Rose, Adelaide, Australia - 11 May 2005 The Last Temptation

Totally Brilliant!!! Every Val McDermid book I've read has been un-put-downable. I'd thought `A Place Of Excecution' was her best book.......but I was wrong. I don't know how it was possible to top A Place Of Exec., but I'm only 50 or so pages from the end of `The Last Temptation', and not happy about coming to the end of it. I started it just over 24 hours ago, and have tried to make it last longer - like a kid with a new Xmas gift!! As with all the Tony Hill & Carol Jordan books, this one takes the reader on a surreal and terrifying journey into the dark side of human nature. I love the development of intimacy between Hill & Jordan, almost as an antidote to the references to the horrors of (legalised) abuse in history being carried down through the generations. And I loved the brief reference to civilisation being only a very thin veneer. This appears to be a recurring theme in all McDermid's books. I find all of her books provide a wonderful - if only brief - escape from the dull grind of everyday life.

From: Mick, Sydney , Australia - 10 May 2005 A Place of Execution

Wow , lost for words Funny enough I just liked the cover and bought this book a few weeks ago and to be honest I had not heard of the author . What can I say , what a fanatastic book , terrific style of telling the story and great characters . Looking at this website this novel is just the tip of the iceberg . Glad I've found out about Val what a lucky find , and now I dont mind my 45 min train rides home from work.

From: Holly, Co. Donegal Ireland - 04 May 2005 The Wire In The Blood

Wow! ok well i have a confession i havent read the books i cant seem to find them anywhere here in ireland but ive watched every single witb episode andi love it!altough it may ruin things for carl and tony to get together i do reallt want them to there so perfect for each other.and i love in the tv series the little moments they have its so lovely!i think the casting was perfect and i hope theres loads more series. i will buy the books as soon as i find them!

From: Russ, Australia - 21 Apr 2005 Killing The Shadows

Compelling and driven I love the genre and I appreciate the difference when I find a well crafted story. I find myself ploughing through. Time seems to slip away and the imagination is engaged. In my humble opinion Val McDermid writes with the best of them. She writes and engages my mind in the way Cornwell has. The bonus has been the settings in the U.K.

From: Jules Carter, Dublin (originally from Plymouth, Devon) - 20 Apr 2005 The Mermaids Singing

Magnificently written and wonderful characters! After reading The Mermaids Singing, Wire in the Blood and starting to read The Last Temptation (which believe me will not take me long)I am amazed that for the first time in ages I cannot put them down! The writing is excellent and you can imagine the characters as they are so utterly believable. The televising of Wire in the Blood was a very good move, isn't Robson Greene so like the character Dr Tony Hill? Well done casting. I would encourage anyone to read these books, though knuckle-biting in parts, are a thrill to read. What an excellent crime author Val McDermid is - we are all on the edge of our seats reading. Very atmospheric what more can I say? More, more and more!

From: Marg, Queensland, Australia - 10 Apr 2005 The Distant Echo

One of those stay up all night and read novels Riveting from beginning to end. Keeps one guessing from start to finish. Wonderful warm and "real" characters. Very simply, a book one just has to keep reading at the expense of all else.

From: loyal4, hull, england - 09 Apr 2005 The Torment of Others

couldn't put it down! it was fantastic! i loved it! i have read all of val mc dermids tony hill books and they have all been fantastic!

From: r, london - 08 Apr 2005 The Last Temptation

I hope she writes more after'the torture of the others' this book was terrifying, but the most exciting read. The characters are so alive and real, the readers can really feel their pain when it happens. I have never read anything like it before!

From: r, london - 08 Apr 2005 The Torment of Others

amazing, completely drawn into it This is one of the best books iv ever read, along with the other three before it. I only just discovered them, and haven't been able to stop reading them. The storyline is very exciting,also it's interesting to see it through the eyes of the killer. It's also good to have another storyline to distract the reader, and keep them on the edge of their seat!

From: Laura, Missouri U.S. - 31 Mar 2005 The Distant Echo

A Fantastic Read!!!! This was just a great story! The four main people in this book were so REAL!!!! Not many stories grab me like this. Anyone who grew up in the 70's will relate to these boys. What an ending! Kept me awake!!! Great job!!!!

From: Sandeep Harchowdhury, Mumbai, India - 23 Mar 2005 The Torment of Others

Gripping! There is no doubt about it at all - Val McDermid is a master storyteller. I could not put down this book. I had a tiring day at work and knew that I had to be up at 5 am the next day yet the story compelled me to read on. She has created each character with great care. To me they are just as real as my next-door neighbor (and hopefully my neighbor is not a killer!) Wow Val!

From: sue, Traralgon Australia - 23 Mar 2005 The Wire In The Blood

fantastic I saw the TV series first and loved it. But the the books are much better,I have enjoyed evey one,I hope Val writes more for Tony and carol

From: Wiggy, Reading, England - 01 Mar 2005 The Last Temptation

Val Mc Dermid - Legend Put it this way. I am 20, left school 4 years ago, hadn't read a book since. Stumbled across The Mermaids Singing and have not put the books down until i got to page 531 of The Last Temptation. All i can say is that i can not wait until pay day so that i can work my way through the rest of her fantastically written novels.

From: Leonie Hutcheson, Queensland, Australia - 16 Feb 2005 The Mermaids Singing

Where did the last week go? I have just finished reading 'The Mermaids Singing' and 'The Wire in the Blood' I've been struggling to keep up with my "motherly duties" when all I want to do was indulge myself with the text that Val MacDermid has created. I'm so pleased I stumbled across these books. I love a good thriller and the books had me guessing until the end of how it would all pan out. (Why does a good book have to have a last page?)

From: Mike, Sebago, Maine USA - 15 Feb 2005 The Distant Echo

awesome A chance audio book i picked up and was totally taken in with the book. Could hardly wait to get back in my truck and listen to a few more sentences on the way to the local store. Tremendous story line,tension was almost unbearable. I've listened to more than 450 books and this is in the top 3!!!!

From: Linda, Capalaba, Australia - 22 Jan 2005 The Torment of Others

THIS LEFT ME BREATHLESS - CAN'T WAIT FOR THE NEXT ONE!! I have been a fan of Val McDermid's writing for many years. After I read the last Tony Hill and Carol Jordan novel I thought that it was sadly the last for them especially after what Carol suffered through. I was absolutely delighted to find another installment!! After watching the TV series (I had already read the books but still enjoyed the show) I found Robson Green and Hermione Norris the perfect actors to play Tony and Carol. So often when books are made for TV, the result is disappointing - congrats to all involved. The only problem with finishing "The Torment of Others" is I am left panting for more and feeling much affection for Tony and Carol. Despite what others say I don't believe they have to have sex to "complete" their relationship - it's obvious they love each other deeply!

From: debs, Newcastle,England - 20 Jan 2005 The Last Temptation

could not stop turning the pages. deeply absorbing.i have read quite a few of Vals books since i found them about four months ago.Lost count of the books ive read but this one is brilliant.Very dramatic,loved the international crime busting work.Tony & Carol what a team,they are like friends now.If you are a