Gripping

Slaughterhouse Farm by T Orr Munroe is an absolutely gripping contemporary crime novel that I just could not put down. It is the second book in the CSI Ally Dymond series but can be read as a stand-alone. I cannot wait to read more books in this outstanding series.

The action is set in Devon. Whilst the countryside can be beautiful, there are some gruesome discoveries that are at odds with the natural beauty.

Trauma can be hard to heal from. It may last a lifetime. A life has been blighted since a teen, being fed lies by those who should know better.

Mothers protect their offspring – and not always in the way we expect.

All the characters were well drawn and realistic. The leading lady is believable as she is perfectly flawed. We see her desire to protect, her huge heart that gives second chances and her tenacity to seek out the truth. I found her capacity for empathy extremely moving in the closing scene.

T Orr Munroe has created a fabulous intricate plotline that was well executed and thought out. My attention was grabbed from the start and held throughout.

I look forward to reading much more by this fabulous author.

I received a free copy from the publishers. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

JULIA WILSON