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Norfolk Coast Investigation Story #1
Collide-O-Scope
An unidentified woman is found murdered on the North Norfolk Coastal Path and newly promoted Detective Sergeant Kate Brannon and Kings Lynn's CID have the task of figuring out whom, how, and why. A job that's made more difficult when everyone of the forty residents in the village has something to hide and answers her questions with a string of lies. Georgina Temple has her own secrets to keep, and her own reasons to keep them. But her growing attraction to Kate makes it increasingly difficult to keep them. Kate's investigation into the woman's death brings delves into the heart of the tiny fishing village where nothing and no one is quite what they seem.
390 pages, ebook
First published April 10, 2016
37 people are currently reading
1014 people want to read
About the author
Andrea Bramhall
21 books299 followersAndrea Bramhall wrote her first novel at the age of six and three-quarters. It was seven pages long and held together with a pink ribbon. Her Gran still has it in the attic. Since then she has progressed a little bit and now has a number of published works held together with glue, not ribbons, an Alice B. Lavender certificate, and a Lambda Literary award cluttering up her book shelves.
She studied music and all things arty at Manchester Metropolitan University, graduating in 2002 with a BA in contemporary arts. She is certain it will prove useful someday… maybe.
When she isn’t busy running a campsite and hostel on the North Norfolk Coast, Bramhall can be found hunched over her laptop scribbling down the stories that won’t let her sleep. She can also be found reading, walking the dogs up mountains while taking a few thousand photos, scuba diving while taking a few thousand photos, swimming, kayaking, playing the saxophone, or cycling.
She studied music and all things arty at Manchester Metropolitan University, graduating in 2002 with a BA in contemporary arts. She is certain it will prove useful someday… maybe.
When she isn’t busy running a campsite and hostel on the North Norfolk Coast, Bramhall can be found hunched over her laptop scribbling down the stories that won’t let her sleep. She can also be found reading, walking the dogs up mountains while taking a few thousand photos, scuba diving while taking a few thousand photos, swimming, kayaking, playing the saxophone, or cycling.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
May 24, 2022
I love this title so much. It has great characters, plot, setting, suspense and atmosphere. There is the beginning of a tentative relationship between Kate and Gina, and it is closely woven into the main plot. I was positively impressed about the slow but steady development of the plot. You could guess about possible perpetrators, but just like the police, you needed to wait until there were more clues.
This was awesome, and even more so because there are believable female characters in it.
Definitely 5 out of 5 stars
This was awesome, and even more so because there are believable female characters in it.
Definitely 5 out of 5 stars
November 23, 2018
" Just because two lesbians are in the same room together does not mean they will automatically fall into bed with each other "
- Detective Sergeant Kate Brannon -
My first by Ms.Bramhall, a murder mystery based in the UK. Two factors I couldn't resist; Murder and the UK.
The prologue started really well, my jaw dropped and my heart broke a little.
A local businesswoman found murdered and until the 5O%, mark I failed to figure out the motif. The suspects weren't suspicious enough and the leading detective + the rest of the investigation team were quite relaxed too, maybe because it was just O.N.E. murder victim.
From their first scene, sparks were ignited when Kate and Gina touched ( I'm still clueless on such matter, especially when their hair remained the same ), they got along really well too as Gina was an employee/friend of the victim and a source of information to Kate. There were some minor issues as they were trying to upgrade their acquaintance status to something more.
The masterminds behind the major criminal activity were unexpected and not too shabby. I loved their modus operandi, especially the dropped off and retrieval aspects.
This book wasn't disturbing, didn't trigger my adrenaline rush but did some dents to my heart.
What happened to Connie was the result of unselfish love, she was willing to put her life in danger for her partner. And the relationship between Sammy and her father, yea the father did screw up but he loved her unconditionally and she felt the same way too.. I hope that they'll be reunited in the next book.
- Detective Sergeant Kate Brannon -
My first by Ms.Bramhall, a murder mystery based in the UK. Two factors I couldn't resist; Murder and the UK.
The prologue started really well, my jaw dropped and my heart broke a little.
A local businesswoman found murdered and until the 5O%, mark I failed to figure out the motif. The suspects weren't suspicious enough and the leading detective + the rest of the investigation team were quite relaxed too, maybe because it was just O.N.E. murder victim.
From their first scene, sparks were ignited when Kate and Gina touched ( I'm still clueless on such matter, especially when their hair remained the same ), they got along really well too as Gina was an employee/friend of the victim and a source of information to Kate. There were some minor issues as they were trying to upgrade their acquaintance status to something more.
The masterminds behind the major criminal activity were unexpected and not too shabby. I loved their modus operandi, especially the dropped off and retrieval aspects.
This book wasn't disturbing, didn't trigger my adrenaline rush but did some dents to my heart.
What happened to Connie was the result of unselfish love, she was willing to put her life in danger for her partner. And the relationship between Sammy and her father, yea the father did screw up but he loved her unconditionally and she felt the same way too.. I hope that they'll be reunited in the next book.
February 16, 2021
I wasn't sure what to expect going into this one. I've read a couple of comedies by Bramhall and, admittedly, I didn't even read the blurb on Collide-O-Scope.
What I got was an exceptionally well executed mystery.
Except for Agatha Christie, I'm not the biggest mystery fan. I'll enjoy one if it's couched in the fantasy or paranormal genres but real-life mysteries in lesfic often are over the top (except for Cari Hunter's books).
Bramhall introduces us to Kate, a homicide detective, who finds herself in a depressed small coastal town investigating a murder. I was really blown away by how the author slowly built up the characters and the town, weaving multiple threads through the story that we followed one by one. I found the story completely unpredictable while also absolutely plausible. Bramhall really put a lot of cleverness into this plot and I loved the reveals.
Kate is fallible and human yet a strong person that is engaging and personable. And, Gina, the love interest for Kate is a good counter balance, being just as easy to like.
The mystery is dark and has a gloomy feel, just like the town itself. We definitely get some intensity and unpleasant feels in this read but the story has humor and heart.
Overall, extremely well done and I give my kudos to Bramhall for putting together such a well crafted mystery.
Henrietta Miere, a British actress, is the narrator for this story and delivered it with the gravity and intensity it needed.
4.4 stars
Audiobook available on Scribd.
What I got was an exceptionally well executed mystery.
Except for Agatha Christie, I'm not the biggest mystery fan. I'll enjoy one if it's couched in the fantasy or paranormal genres but real-life mysteries in lesfic often are over the top (except for Cari Hunter's books).
Bramhall introduces us to Kate, a homicide detective, who finds herself in a depressed small coastal town investigating a murder. I was really blown away by how the author slowly built up the characters and the town, weaving multiple threads through the story that we followed one by one. I found the story completely unpredictable while also absolutely plausible. Bramhall really put a lot of cleverness into this plot and I loved the reveals.
Kate is fallible and human yet a strong person that is engaging and personable. And, Gina, the love interest for Kate is a good counter balance, being just as easy to like.
The mystery is dark and has a gloomy feel, just like the town itself. We definitely get some intensity and unpleasant feels in this read but the story has humor and heart.
Overall, extremely well done and I give my kudos to Bramhall for putting together such a well crafted mystery.
Henrietta Miere, a British actress, is the narrator for this story and delivered it with the gravity and intensity it needed.
4.4 stars
Audiobook available on Scribd.
March 20, 2017
This is a good book for mystery fans. It has a little bit of romance, but it was small and seemed to be starting more as the book was ending.
The mystery was quite good and the overall direction the book went. However, it was pretty easy to decide for yourself how the crime happened and who did it.
Both main characters were decent, bit hopefully in book two, we can get a better feel of them. The secondary characters didn't add much to the story, but I did enjoy the kid.
I don't want to spoil to much, but the ending and sort of climax of the book was a bit wow, and I'm a little surprised Bramhall went that far.
As I said above, if you are a mystery fan this is a good book to pick up. I'm looking forward to book 2.
The mystery was quite good and the overall direction the book went. However, it was pretty easy to decide for yourself how the crime happened and who did it.
Both main characters were decent, bit hopefully in book two, we can get a better feel of them. The secondary characters didn't add much to the story, but I did enjoy the kid.
I don't want to spoil to much, but the ending and sort of climax of the book was a bit wow, and I'm a little surprised Bramhall went that far.
As I said above, if you are a mystery fan this is a good book to pick up. I'm looking forward to book 2.
July 12, 2018
Excellent. Everything is really really good, the mystery part, the romance part, the writing, everything. Loved it.
September 7, 2016
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
This is my second book by this author. I rather enjoyed the first book I had read. It has been more than a year, though, since I read that book. I hadn't read another in between because of a 'trap' I sometimes fall into - if I love the first book that I read by an author (or, at least, really like), and I do not immediately read something else by them; I fall into the trap of fearing reading something 'less than perfect', which would seemingly, somehow, undermine my previous read. Yeah, I know, not logical.
Location
A small village, Brandale Staite, in North Norfolk England. A place of 39 year round residents (there had been 40, but Connie’s dead now). The village swells to four hundred ‘in season’. ‘The campsite holds six hundred people per night.’
Note: there is a map at the front of the book. It shows King’s Lynn (where Kate lives and where a second murder investigation takes place off-scene), Hunstanton (where the police work out of while investigating) but does not show Brandale Staite (unless that is also called Brancaster?).
Main Characters
There are two points of views in this book.
Detective Sergeant Kate Brannon is relatively newly promoted to her position (three weeks before the beginning of this book), and relatively newly arrived in the area (moved to Kings Lynn from Norwich at same time as promotion). Though she grew up in a small village like setting near the sea. Nearish to an oil rig. This is important since her pop worked on one. Before it burned – it and him on it. Mother died when Kate was young. So she was raised by her grandmother, but she’s passed on now as well (when Kate was 17). Kate is currently 35. Drives a BMW Mini.
Of Importance : There is a question that Gina asks Kate, something like ‘will someone miss you when you die?’ the answer is ‘no’.
Georgina ‘Gina’ Temple is a woman who works as the second in command at Wells campsite (the manager). She is a mother of 9 year old Sammy, who she had when she was 17, making her 26 when the book opens. Had liked drinking a bottle of Shiraz with Connie. Also drinks Rioja.
Of Importance : Sammy (daughter), Matt Green (father of her child), and Connie Wells (boss and friend).
Secondary Characters
NOTE: Since this is a mystery and ‘everyone’s a suspect’ I’ve attempted to add people as their names came up the first time. Not by order of importance.
Police
Inspector Savage is the person in control of the crime scene where Wells body was found. He is meet at the beginning of the book, and mentioned several times thereafter but has little to no interaction with the story after the beginning.
Detective Inspector Timmons is Kate’s direct boss and would have normally lead the investigation of Wells death but for a slightly higher priority murder investigation involving three women in a ‘the middle of King’s Lynn.‘
Dr. Ruth Anderson is the medical examiner.
Sergeant Stella Goodwin is ‘an experienced sergeant’ who will handle the inside the office stuff, while Kate handles the outside the office investigation. Technically she has been 'left in charge' when Timmons goes off to attempt to solve some other 'more important' case. I say technically because Goodwin and Brannon more often work together than have Goodwin dictate what Brannon will do.
Detective Constable Jimmy Powers is Kate’s assistant. ‘A guy in his late twenties.’
Police Constable Collier is a newbie partnered up DC Brothers. Both working on the investigation.
Detective Constable Tom Brothers works on the investigation. Makes jokes a lot. He ‘looked a little like a panda in reverse.’
Len Wild is the head of the forensics team working on the murder investigation.
Villagers
William Clapp is a worker at Wells’ campsite. He is a ‘thin, blonde guy’ with a ‘diamond earring . . . in his left ear.’
Leah Shaw is Connie’s ex. Described as being the people person of the relationship, though that is not in evidence in the book. Leah is currently bunking with Ally Robbins.
Matthew ‘Matt’ Green is the father of Sammy Temple, and works for Sands. Lives in ‘Pebbles Cottage, Brandale Staithe.’
Ally ‘the Cat’ Robbins works on a lobster boat (or a fishing boat at least). Has a reputation of being ‘a tramp who’ll sleep with anything that doesn’t say no.’
Edward and Rupert Sands are the people that own half the village. Something like bitter rivals of Connie Wells.
Murder Victim
Connie Wells is/was a woman who ran the successful camp site in the village – the one that, in season, provides a great deal of support to the rest of the business in the village. The campsite is called ‘Brandale Backpackers and Camping.’ She was formerly attached to a woman named Leah, but sometime in the past, prior to the start of the book, they had split apart (six months prior?). Everyone, including the ex, but not including Gina and Sammy, describes Connie as being a bitch. And kind of disliked her. Medical examiner gave an approximate age for Wells of between 30 and 40.
Of Importance : Merlin (dog), Leah (ex.), workers of her business, villagers
Plot
The book opens with a prologue. One that I see occasionally and kind of dislike for one specific reason. It allows the reader to see the character alive and bouncing around as a fully realized character. Then kills them. There’s a reason I stopped reading so many mysteries. Gets depressing – that.
Well, so, the book opens, and a woman is out walking her dog along a particular path near a marshy flood plain. She has her camera with her and is taking pictures. Unlike most of her times taking pictures, she is less focused on nature and the like, and more on what is happening involving some lobster traps.
Gun shots go off. Merlin, Connie’s dog, squeals in terror. The birds flee. Connie shrugs. The noise makers have gone off – sounds that are made in the morning by farmers to drive off birds.
Connie raises her camera and focuses. Another shot goes off.
Chapter one finds a Detective Sergeant Kate Brannon heading to a crime scene. There’s a frantic dog being held by a police officer, a crime scene inspector, and police. The police do not yet know who the victim is, since she does not have any identification on her, and she is missing her face.
The book proceeds with following Brannon as she investigates. Timmons, her boss, would normally be the lead investigator, but another case comes up of slightly more importance.
Relatively quickly, like in the first chapter (I think I recall), the identity is revealed to the police, though, of course, the reader already knew. Connie Wells has died. By gunshot.
Wells, it turns out, has a business in the village, or on the outskirts, that involves a seasonal campsite. That campsite adds a ton of business to the village, and, as some note, the village itself would greatly suffer if that campsite were to close. Which, as it turns out, Wells was within a week of doing. And the whole village knew about this issue.
Meanwhile, Wells has an ex-girlfriend who has made threats against her.
The richest family, or at least the one that owns half the village (I rephrase as I do not know how wealthy Connie might have been), also despise Wells. It was mutual.
So – everyone wanted her dead. Well . . . not exactly. One at least wanted her dead. The rest? Baring a few here and there (including Gina and Sammy Temple, and possible one or more of her other employees), just thought she was a bitch.
So Brannon must first determine who the victim was, then who killed her.
Overall
There are many types of police books – a few of the varieties include (1) those that are mostly about the crimes and the people who investigate them (emphasis on investigation – police procedural – ‘just the facts’); (2) those that are like 1, but include a heavier emphasis on characters; (3) similar to 2 but injects romance while still focused mainly on the investigation; (4) like 3 but focus is mainly on the romance, while the investigation takes something of a back seat; (5) those which are mostly romance in nature, maybe mixed with danger, but the focus is heavily focused on the romance; plus a million and one other variations.
This book is one that leans between 2 and 3 above – the book is heavily into the murder investigation (Kate), with some character development stuff (Gina), while having a bit of romance floating in the air . . . lightly in some places (beginning), a lot heavier in others (80%+) (Kate, Gina).
I was thinking, while reading this book, that it reminds me of reading a Peter Lovesey book. I did not have a fully developed thought when I was thinking of Lovesey – beyond the idea that, unlike many/most lesbian fiction mysteries that involve the police, this specific book had a Lovesey vibe. This means nothing to those who have no idea what I’m talking about, of course. See, not fully developed thought. My point of thinking of him, had to do with emphasis – a lot of the lesbian fiction mysteries I’ve read have had romance be something of much greater importance than the mystery (at least those that include the police – there are many wherein it seems as if the characters in the story forget that there’s actually a mystery to solve, in favor of . . . um . . humping); while this book here gives greater importance to the mystery.
Still, no inherent reason to bring Lovesey up. It was just a thought that had crossed my mind at some point. Lovesey’s books, specifically those that involve Peter Diamond, are ones that involve murder investigations set in England which is a more leaning 2 (depending on book and scene) with occasional dips into injecting romance. As in there is a lot of importance on characters.
Right. No idea why I had that thought. Let’s move on.
This book was a rather thrilling exciting mystery that included the right mix of romance. Granted, those who look for romance, as in capital R Romance, should probably look elsewhere, but there is a flavor of it here.
There is one slight issue I have with the book. Though it is hard to indicate my 'issue' when it occurs so late in the book that I can't really mention it. I'll just say that there is something of a cliche in lesbian mystery books that pops up near the end. Though, to be fair, I've seen the scenario play out similarly in 'mainstream' fiction. I've just seen it more often in lesbian mystery books for whatever reason. Also, to be fair, this "cliche' is handled quite well in this book.
Despite my 'issue', this a rather good book. Quite enjoyable. I would probably give the book a relatively solid rating of 4.70.
May 4 2016
This is my second book by this author. I rather enjoyed the first book I had read. It has been more than a year, though, since I read that book. I hadn't read another in between because of a 'trap' I sometimes fall into - if I love the first book that I read by an author (or, at least, really like), and I do not immediately read something else by them; I fall into the trap of fearing reading something 'less than perfect', which would seemingly, somehow, undermine my previous read. Yeah, I know, not logical.
Location
A small village, Brandale Staite, in North Norfolk England. A place of 39 year round residents (there had been 40, but Connie’s dead now). The village swells to four hundred ‘in season’. ‘The campsite holds six hundred people per night.’
Note: there is a map at the front of the book. It shows King’s Lynn (where Kate lives and where a second murder investigation takes place off-scene), Hunstanton (where the police work out of while investigating) but does not show Brandale Staite (unless that is also called Brancaster?).
Main Characters
There are two points of views in this book.
Detective Sergeant Kate Brannon is relatively newly promoted to her position (three weeks before the beginning of this book), and relatively newly arrived in the area (moved to Kings Lynn from Norwich at same time as promotion). Though she grew up in a small village like setting near the sea. Nearish to an oil rig. This is important since her pop worked on one. Before it burned – it and him on it. Mother died when Kate was young. So she was raised by her grandmother, but she’s passed on now as well (when Kate was 17). Kate is currently 35. Drives a BMW Mini.
Of Importance : There is a question that Gina asks Kate, something like ‘will someone miss you when you die?’ the answer is ‘no’.
Georgina ‘Gina’ Temple is a woman who works as the second in command at Wells campsite (the manager). She is a mother of 9 year old Sammy, who she had when she was 17, making her 26 when the book opens. Had liked drinking a bottle of Shiraz with Connie. Also drinks Rioja.
Of Importance : Sammy (daughter), Matt Green (father of her child), and Connie Wells (boss and friend).
Secondary Characters
NOTE: Since this is a mystery and ‘everyone’s a suspect’ I’ve attempted to add people as their names came up the first time. Not by order of importance.
Police
Inspector Savage is the person in control of the crime scene where Wells body was found. He is meet at the beginning of the book, and mentioned several times thereafter but has little to no interaction with the story after the beginning.
Detective Inspector Timmons is Kate’s direct boss and would have normally lead the investigation of Wells death but for a slightly higher priority murder investigation involving three women in a ‘the middle of King’s Lynn.‘
Dr. Ruth Anderson is the medical examiner.
Sergeant Stella Goodwin is ‘an experienced sergeant’ who will handle the inside the office stuff, while Kate handles the outside the office investigation. Technically she has been 'left in charge' when Timmons goes off to attempt to solve some other 'more important' case. I say technically because Goodwin and Brannon more often work together than have Goodwin dictate what Brannon will do.
Detective Constable Jimmy Powers is Kate’s assistant. ‘A guy in his late twenties.’
Police Constable Collier is a newbie partnered up DC Brothers. Both working on the investigation.
Detective Constable Tom Brothers works on the investigation. Makes jokes a lot. He ‘looked a little like a panda in reverse.’
Len Wild is the head of the forensics team working on the murder investigation.
Villagers
William Clapp is a worker at Wells’ campsite. He is a ‘thin, blonde guy’ with a ‘diamond earring . . . in his left ear.’
Leah Shaw is Connie’s ex. Described as being the people person of the relationship, though that is not in evidence in the book. Leah is currently bunking with Ally Robbins.
Matthew ‘Matt’ Green is the father of Sammy Temple, and works for Sands. Lives in ‘Pebbles Cottage, Brandale Staithe.’
Ally ‘the Cat’ Robbins works on a lobster boat (or a fishing boat at least). Has a reputation of being ‘a tramp who’ll sleep with anything that doesn’t say no.’
Edward and Rupert Sands are the people that own half the village. Something like bitter rivals of Connie Wells.
Murder Victim
Connie Wells is/was a woman who ran the successful camp site in the village – the one that, in season, provides a great deal of support to the rest of the business in the village. The campsite is called ‘Brandale Backpackers and Camping.’ She was formerly attached to a woman named Leah, but sometime in the past, prior to the start of the book, they had split apart (six months prior?). Everyone, including the ex, but not including Gina and Sammy, describes Connie as being a bitch. And kind of disliked her. Medical examiner gave an approximate age for Wells of between 30 and 40.
Of Importance : Merlin (dog), Leah (ex.), workers of her business, villagers
Plot
The book opens with a prologue. One that I see occasionally and kind of dislike for one specific reason. It allows the reader to see the character alive and bouncing around as a fully realized character. Then kills them. There’s a reason I stopped reading so many mysteries. Gets depressing – that.
Well, so, the book opens, and a woman is out walking her dog along a particular path near a marshy flood plain. She has her camera with her and is taking pictures. Unlike most of her times taking pictures, she is less focused on nature and the like, and more on what is happening involving some lobster traps.
Gun shots go off. Merlin, Connie’s dog, squeals in terror. The birds flee. Connie shrugs. The noise makers have gone off – sounds that are made in the morning by farmers to drive off birds.
Connie raises her camera and focuses. Another shot goes off.
Chapter one finds a Detective Sergeant Kate Brannon heading to a crime scene. There’s a frantic dog being held by a police officer, a crime scene inspector, and police. The police do not yet know who the victim is, since she does not have any identification on her, and she is missing her face.
The book proceeds with following Brannon as she investigates. Timmons, her boss, would normally be the lead investigator, but another case comes up of slightly more importance.
Relatively quickly, like in the first chapter (I think I recall), the identity is revealed to the police, though, of course, the reader already knew. Connie Wells has died. By gunshot.
Wells, it turns out, has a business in the village, or on the outskirts, that involves a seasonal campsite. That campsite adds a ton of business to the village, and, as some note, the village itself would greatly suffer if that campsite were to close. Which, as it turns out, Wells was within a week of doing. And the whole village knew about this issue.
Meanwhile, Wells has an ex-girlfriend who has made threats against her.
The richest family, or at least the one that owns half the village (I rephrase as I do not know how wealthy Connie might have been), also despise Wells. It was mutual.
So – everyone wanted her dead. Well . . . not exactly. One at least wanted her dead. The rest? Baring a few here and there (including Gina and Sammy Temple, and possible one or more of her other employees), just thought she was a bitch.
So Brannon must first determine who the victim was, then who killed her.
Overall
There are many types of police books – a few of the varieties include (1) those that are mostly about the crimes and the people who investigate them (emphasis on investigation – police procedural – ‘just the facts’); (2) those that are like 1, but include a heavier emphasis on characters; (3) similar to 2 but injects romance while still focused mainly on the investigation; (4) like 3 but focus is mainly on the romance, while the investigation takes something of a back seat; (5) those which are mostly romance in nature, maybe mixed with danger, but the focus is heavily focused on the romance; plus a million and one other variations.
This book is one that leans between 2 and 3 above – the book is heavily into the murder investigation (Kate), with some character development stuff (Gina), while having a bit of romance floating in the air . . . lightly in some places (beginning), a lot heavier in others (80%+) (Kate, Gina).
I was thinking, while reading this book, that it reminds me of reading a Peter Lovesey book. I did not have a fully developed thought when I was thinking of Lovesey – beyond the idea that, unlike many/most lesbian fiction mysteries that involve the police, this specific book had a Lovesey vibe. This means nothing to those who have no idea what I’m talking about, of course. See, not fully developed thought. My point of thinking of him, had to do with emphasis – a lot of the lesbian fiction mysteries I’ve read have had romance be something of much greater importance than the mystery (at least those that include the police – there are many wherein it seems as if the characters in the story forget that there’s actually a mystery to solve, in favor of . . . um . . humping); while this book here gives greater importance to the mystery.
Still, no inherent reason to bring Lovesey up. It was just a thought that had crossed my mind at some point. Lovesey’s books, specifically those that involve Peter Diamond, are ones that involve murder investigations set in England which is a more leaning 2 (depending on book and scene) with occasional dips into injecting romance. As in there is a lot of importance on characters.
Right. No idea why I had that thought. Let’s move on.
This book was a rather thrilling exciting mystery that included the right mix of romance. Granted, those who look for romance, as in capital R Romance, should probably look elsewhere, but there is a flavor of it here.
There is one slight issue I have with the book. Though it is hard to indicate my 'issue' when it occurs so late in the book that I can't really mention it. I'll just say that there is something of a cliche in lesbian mystery books that pops up near the end. Though, to be fair, I've seen the scenario play out similarly in 'mainstream' fiction. I've just seen it more often in lesbian mystery books for whatever reason. Also, to be fair, this "cliche' is handled quite well in this book.
Despite my 'issue', this a rather good book. Quite enjoyable. I would probably give the book a relatively solid rating of 4.70.
May 4 2016
October 18, 2020
An excellent mystery, it took me a while to figure out who did it, but even when I did, the ending was quite unexpected. This book reminded me of these British tv detective series, a bit gloomy and no frill. Since I enjoy those too this was a good match for me. I listened to the audio version (narrated by Henrietta Meire) and thought the narration fitted well. I loved the British accent (not the posh type) and it was a bit sober like the book itself.
Besides the mystery there is a romance and they had chemistry together, but I have to say, the sparks did not really fly (yet). I look forward to learning more about them and seeing their romance evolve in the following books. The banter with the other cops was a fun distraction and Gina’s kid is great, I really liked her.
A good choice for those who enjoy a British mystery with a bit of romance.
Besides the mystery there is a romance and they had chemistry together, but I have to say, the sparks did not really fly (yet). I look forward to learning more about them and seeing their romance evolve in the following books. The banter with the other cops was a fun distraction and Gina’s kid is great, I really liked her.
A good choice for those who enjoy a British mystery with a bit of romance.
June 3, 2016
Police procedurals are a favourite genre of mine. Andrea Bramhall has gifted us with an entertaining look at a murder investigation in a tiny coastal fishing village where everyone is a suspect and someone has much to hide.
Collide-O-Scope opens with a prologue which is descriptive and detailed. It is hard not to like or at least respect the victim when she is the first character we meet. The townsfolk have other opinions of Connie and it is up to newly promoted Detective Sergeant Kate Brannon and her team to solve the murder and uncover the reasons why a local woman would be shot while out for a morning stroll.
In what I hope is the first of many books featuring DS Brannon we get to see the developing rapport with her investigative team. As the story unfolds Brannon capitalizes on the strengths of her officers. The friendly banter between team members adds to the story when clues are few and suspects abundant. It all felt very realistic and close to how a murder investigation might evolve.
More than just a murder mystery, we also get a sweet budding relationship between Kate and campground manager Gina. No sex please, we’re British but the attraction shown by both women added to the story. Electric handshakes aside, Gina and her daughter Sammy add elements of suspense and tension needed to speed up the investigation and keep the reader turning pages.
As I read the book I found myself comparing Collide-O-Scope to the Louise Penny novels set in Three Pines featuring Chief Inspector Armand Gamache. Like Penny, Bramhall uses her knowledge of the area and its idiosyncrasies to build an entertaining mystery. Begin with unique and somewhat quirky locals. Mix with a solid team of detectives and a setting which plays a significant role in the crime and you get a fascinating read.
Loved it. More please.
ARC received with thanks from publisher via NetGalley
Collide-O-Scope opens with a prologue which is descriptive and detailed. It is hard not to like or at least respect the victim when she is the first character we meet. The townsfolk have other opinions of Connie and it is up to newly promoted Detective Sergeant Kate Brannon and her team to solve the murder and uncover the reasons why a local woman would be shot while out for a morning stroll.
In what I hope is the first of many books featuring DS Brannon we get to see the developing rapport with her investigative team. As the story unfolds Brannon capitalizes on the strengths of her officers. The friendly banter between team members adds to the story when clues are few and suspects abundant. It all felt very realistic and close to how a murder investigation might evolve.
More than just a murder mystery, we also get a sweet budding relationship between Kate and campground manager Gina. No sex please, we’re British but the attraction shown by both women added to the story. Electric handshakes aside, Gina and her daughter Sammy add elements of suspense and tension needed to speed up the investigation and keep the reader turning pages.
As I read the book I found myself comparing Collide-O-Scope to the Louise Penny novels set in Three Pines featuring Chief Inspector Armand Gamache. Like Penny, Bramhall uses her knowledge of the area and its idiosyncrasies to build an entertaining mystery. Begin with unique and somewhat quirky locals. Mix with a solid team of detectives and a setting which plays a significant role in the crime and you get a fascinating read.
Loved it. More please.
ARC received with thanks from publisher via NetGalley
May 30, 2022
Overall, a very good mystery. Small town, murder, everyone is a suspect. Some romance sprinkled in.
I believe this is my first book by this narrator and it will not be my last.
I believe this is my first book by this narrator and it will not be my last.
May 15, 2016
This was a good read when it comes to mystery and police procedural parts. A little bit stretched in places, but still interesting enough. But when it comes to the main characters, not so good. I didn't care much for them or for their budding romantic relationship. There was no secondary character which I would particularly remember, except the murder victim and her dog. They are well characterized and truly memorable. The setting was well described, and I could picture the sleepy little fishing village and its surroundings. The book cover is based on the setting and really is excellent.
All in all, if I could get more attached to the main characters, this would be a much better story for me.
3.5 stars
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
All in all, if I could get more attached to the main characters, this would be a much better story for me.
3.5 stars
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
October 24, 2016
When the body of a woman is discovered on a coastal path Detective Sergeant Kate Brannon and her colleagues are tasked with figuring out what has happened. During her investigation she meets Georgina who she hopes can help her with her investigation.
I love a good crime thriller and this is definitely one of those. There is a mystery element to the book where you're questioning who's good or bad and this is done very well. The romance in this book is a slow burn and it needs to be. It works perfectly with the mystery element of the book and it unfolds in a realistic way.
Andrea Bramhall is one of the few authors that I make sure I read her latest books and that's not going to change now. I'm looking forward to the second book in this series and expect it to be just as good as this one was.
ARC received from Ylva for an honest review.
I love a good crime thriller and this is definitely one of those. There is a mystery element to the book where you're questioning who's good or bad and this is done very well. The romance in this book is a slow burn and it needs to be. It works perfectly with the mystery element of the book and it unfolds in a realistic way.
Andrea Bramhall is one of the few authors that I make sure I read her latest books and that's not going to change now. I'm looking forward to the second book in this series and expect it to be just as good as this one was.
ARC received from Ylva for an honest review.
August 6, 2016
Interesting and entertaining read.
I love the setting and the characters, the secondary characters were interesting and added depth to the story without being two dimensional.
This did remind me a lot of Cari Hunter's "Cold too Touch" books, but that is probably just because of the English regionalism put front and centre and the overall criminal/romance plot.
If I have any criticism it is that the final quarter of the book could have been tighter, having played through a number of red herrings it became (to me) obvious where the story was heading.
However, yet again this author has decided to tackle a different genre from any she has tackled before and she must be applauded for her ambition.
Pick it up and enjoy, you will not be disappointed.
I love the setting and the characters, the secondary characters were interesting and added depth to the story without being two dimensional.
This did remind me a lot of Cari Hunter's "Cold too Touch" books, but that is probably just because of the English regionalism put front and centre and the overall criminal/romance plot.
If I have any criticism it is that the final quarter of the book could have been tighter, having played through a number of red herrings it became (to me) obvious where the story was heading.
However, yet again this author has decided to tackle a different genre from any she has tackled before and she must be applauded for her ambition.
Pick it up and enjoy, you will not be disappointed.
April 19, 2016
So you just what happens when a virtually unlikable business owner is found murdered on the beach in a small English town. Read Collide-O-Scope by Andrea Bramhall and you’ll find out just how crazy things are going to get in this small coastal community.
Detective Sergeant Kate Brannon is on the case of the homicide of Connie Wells. She must find out why the reclusive business owner was murdered. There are no witnesses, no real motive, and the only real clues are a missing high-powered camera and a bunch of random numbers written down in a journal. Kate spends her days investigating the small community members for clues. Many disliked Connie, but why kill her she was planning on moving anyways.
Gina Temple is the manager of the camp grounds that was owned by the deceased. She is one of the few people that called Connie a friend. Gina is the one community member that is really helping Kate with her investigations. She knows all the movers and shakers in the small town, and she isn’t afraid of sharing background information about each. Gina and Kate have an instant connection, but Gina has secrets of her own.
What makes this book really good is that it’s realistic. You feel like all the pieces are 100% plausible. Never did I feel like the author was grabbing at straws or making things too convenient for the cops or the killer. As the story unfolded all I could think is yeah I’m pretty sure this could happen in real life. This is a police crime drama with a side of romance. The romance unfolds in a way that was sweet and perfect for this book. Kate and Gina, while instantly have a spark, they also dance around each other enough to keep the reader guessing will they or not ever find their way to each other. Great book by an author that always delivers!
4.5 stars
I was given this book by Ylva Publishing in return for an honest review.
Detective Sergeant Kate Brannon is on the case of the homicide of Connie Wells. She must find out why the reclusive business owner was murdered. There are no witnesses, no real motive, and the only real clues are a missing high-powered camera and a bunch of random numbers written down in a journal. Kate spends her days investigating the small community members for clues. Many disliked Connie, but why kill her she was planning on moving anyways.
Gina Temple is the manager of the camp grounds that was owned by the deceased. She is one of the few people that called Connie a friend. Gina is the one community member that is really helping Kate with her investigations. She knows all the movers and shakers in the small town, and she isn’t afraid of sharing background information about each. Gina and Kate have an instant connection, but Gina has secrets of her own.
What makes this book really good is that it’s realistic. You feel like all the pieces are 100% plausible. Never did I feel like the author was grabbing at straws or making things too convenient for the cops or the killer. As the story unfolded all I could think is yeah I’m pretty sure this could happen in real life. This is a police crime drama with a side of romance. The romance unfolds in a way that was sweet and perfect for this book. Kate and Gina, while instantly have a spark, they also dance around each other enough to keep the reader guessing will they or not ever find their way to each other. Great book by an author that always delivers!
4.5 stars
I was given this book by Ylva Publishing in return for an honest review.
May 12, 2016
Good lesfic is sometimes hard to find. Great lesfic even harder. And complex lesfic police procedurals sometimes damn near impossible to find, but I'm happy to say we have a winner here. Well told. Unusual locale. A fast, enjoyable read. First in the series. Looking forward to the next installment. I could see this being made into tv series. I remain hopeful.
Received a Net Galley ARC for an honest review.
Received a Net Galley ARC for an honest review.
March 30, 2022
Another good mystery. This time my suspect are jumping from one character to another and something that the author said on acknowledgement makes me doubt my judgement. I wonder if that was on purpose.
June 18, 2016
Crime thrillers are ridiculously hard to perfect. More so if you have to delicately balance it with a romance. This book comes pretty close.
Newly promoted Detective Kate Brannon is called to a small village to investigate the shooting death of a local woman who owned a campsite. With no witnesses and a crime scene messed-up by the victim's pet dog, the detective has to rely on investigating the 40 other locals for motive and/or opportunity. Turns out the victim isn't particularly well liked, and everyone seems to have something to gain from the her demise. At least one of the villagers, Gina Temple, the campsite manager, seemed more helpful than the others. They have an instant connection and sparks fly. But Gina's status as a possible witness/suspect and her close relationship with the victim preclude any overt moves. When the investigation turns up more secrets, Gina is seemingly caught in a lie of her own. Even if she's not the killer, can Kate ever trust her again?
This is a very well-written and carefully plotted police procedural. There is an elaborate and believable mystery that had me guessing till late in the book. Meaty characters abound--both good guys and bad and an endearing kid who could 'grow up to be either a criminal or a cop' ;). Lead investigator Kate is as dogged and smart as she's supposed to be and the other cops are no slouches either. I had fun trying to puzzle things out.
The understated romance is appropriate for the book. I liked how it developed naturally and in the course of the investigation. It could have done without the repeated "jolts of electricity" that spark whenever they touched ;) Made me wonder if they would spontaneously combust when they finally got together, lol. I guess the author wanted to remind us we're still firmly in romance land. Oh and the author is such a tease. But that would be . :)
4.7 stars
ARC from Ylva
Newly promoted Detective Kate Brannon is called to a small village to investigate the shooting death of a local woman who owned a campsite. With no witnesses and a crime scene messed-up by the victim's pet dog, the detective has to rely on investigating the 40 other locals for motive and/or opportunity. Turns out the victim isn't particularly well liked, and everyone seems to have something to gain from the her demise. At least one of the villagers, Gina Temple, the campsite manager, seemed more helpful than the others. They have an instant connection and sparks fly. But Gina's status as a possible witness/suspect and her close relationship with the victim preclude any overt moves. When the investigation turns up more secrets, Gina is seemingly caught in a lie of her own. Even if she's not the killer, can Kate ever trust her again?
This is a very well-written and carefully plotted police procedural. There is an elaborate and believable mystery that had me guessing till late in the book. Meaty characters abound--both good guys and bad and an endearing kid who could 'grow up to be either a criminal or a cop' ;). Lead investigator Kate is as dogged and smart as she's supposed to be and the other cops are no slouches either. I had fun trying to puzzle things out.
The understated romance is appropriate for the book. I liked how it developed naturally and in the course of the investigation. It could have done without the repeated "jolts of electricity" that spark whenever they touched ;) Made me wonder if they would spontaneously combust when they finally got together, lol. I guess the author wanted to remind us we're still firmly in romance land. Oh and the author is such a tease. But that would be . :)
4.7 stars
ARC from Ylva
April 29, 2022
4.5 Nice mistery with a pinch of romance. I loved it!
July 17, 2017
I was surprised at how much I liked this story. The crime was intriguing and I felt engaged by the characters. I also appreciated that the language/dialogue wasn't Americanized, it made the flow seem more authentic. I'll definitely look for the next in the series while hoping this character has a long run or crimes to solve
March 7, 2018
I love Bramhall’s books. This is my 5th by her and I have loved them all. Nightingale may still be my favorite, so if you haven’t done so already read it. This one was a little slow to start for me. I’m ready to start the next book in this series. Enough mystery to keep me wanting more, and the characters were likeable. If you are a romance fan this is more of a teaser. The mystery/murder is the main focus and it too is very well written. I really hope we get to see a lot more of Kate and Gina.
December 24, 2016
I enjoyed this book. Read it in a couple of sittings which is good for me. I agree with some other's reviewer statements. There could be a little more passion, a little more character development. However, it all came together nicely and turned into what was a really decent read. I would definitely read a sequel.
December 12, 2016
I liked the crime part of this better than the romance.
The characters felt kind of flat and the love at first sight didn't help matters. They didn't really come fully alive, and that's a shame.
The crime part was well-paced, even though it was stretched to its limits in places.
On the other hand it is now midnight and I had to finish it, so there must have been something more to it.
The characters felt kind of flat and the love at first sight didn't help matters. They didn't really come fully alive, and that's a shame.
The crime part was well-paced, even though it was stretched to its limits in places.
On the other hand it is now midnight and I had to finish it, so there must have been something more to it.
May 27, 2020
Can't recommend this one enough. A lesbian loner detective, caring and just looking to solve a case. A cute rascally kid and her loving mother. Throw in a dog for good measure and you've got a great lesfic.
Set in England in a small seaside town, lots of layers to our characters and their backstories. Beautiful effective writing.
I can't wait to continue the series!
Set in England in a small seaside town, lots of layers to our characters and their backstories. Beautiful effective writing.
I can't wait to continue the series!
September 26, 2022
Really enjoyed this and totally loved the inter-action between the Main characters and all the Police guys. Just down loading Book 2…
April 20, 2016
I'm making a lot of allowances for the procedural aspect of this book; I really have no knowledge about how an investigation would be conducted in an English country, nor the culture behind police-work in the country. The crime itself takes place in the opening chapter and the author does an amazing job of setting up the feel of the location as well as the victim. The problem here is that I ended up caring much more about the victim in her single chapter than for the actual characters we were supposed to be following in the rest of the book. I'm a little tired of the sexy, brilliant detective with the lonely heartbreak past, dead parents, no romantic ties trope in a character. Also a bit tired of the precocious kid that really serves little purpose and doesn't help move the story forward. The "romance" with its setting (who gets horny at a murder scene?) and ridiculous impediments keeping the two apart wasn't quite doing it for me either. Don't get me wrong, the book kept me entertained despite my grumbling. I just don't think I'd care to pick it up again for a re-read nor pick up the next title in this series that's implied in the ending. The book earned a C for me; it's average.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for a review.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for a review.
April 30, 2016
One of the best lesbian mystery books I've read!
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for a honest review. I've read several books by this author and, in my opinion, this one is her best. Excellent book full of twists and turns. I liked that the crime is presented at the very beginning and the reader is left knowing more than the investigators on what happened. I've also enjoyed the slow-burn romance between the main characters though most of the book is dedicated to the murder investigation.
Multifaceted main characters and a few interesting secondary characters. Interesting insight on the investigative and police procedures in the UK. This is the first of the series that the author called "Northfolk Coast Investigation Story" so I'm looking forward to reading more about these characters and more investigations. I highly recommend it.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for a honest review. I've read several books by this author and, in my opinion, this one is her best. Excellent book full of twists and turns. I liked that the crime is presented at the very beginning and the reader is left knowing more than the investigators on what happened. I've also enjoyed the slow-burn romance between the main characters though most of the book is dedicated to the murder investigation.
Multifaceted main characters and a few interesting secondary characters. Interesting insight on the investigative and police procedures in the UK. This is the first of the series that the author called "Northfolk Coast Investigation Story" so I'm looking forward to reading more about these characters and more investigations. I highly recommend it.
April 22, 2016
It is a fast paced pageturner from beginning to end. It grips you from page one and does not let go. It has all the ingredients of a spell binding book. Kate is an strong wonderful character. Kind, compassionate, skillful and loving, Investigating the death of a woman that drags her into another crime that had a huge impact on the life of Gina. The characters are sublime, the transitions are smooth and it has great touches of romance. The descriptions and dialogues take you right into this story and the drama keep you on the edge of your seat. I enjoyed watching how the plot unfold. Lucky me, I won this book and it is my first book from this author and now I'm looking forward to read more books from her. Be sure to put Collide-O-Scope at the top of your to-read list.
December 17, 2016
Excellent book.
I loved this book. Excellent writing. The mystery really keeps the plot moving along. The romance is just enough to entice your interest. I hope there are more books coming in this series.
I loved this book. Excellent writing. The mystery really keeps the plot moving along. The romance is just enough to entice your interest. I hope there are more books coming in this series.
May 8, 2016
This is a really fast read, and enjoyable, but I have conflicting feelings about every aspect of the book. I was really into it by the end and the crime was solved believably through actual detective work. It wasn't always 100% realistic, but overall the crime part was solid.
I liked Kate Brannon, and would love to read more of this character, but no other character stood out as interesting or fleshed out. I rooted for Gina, but she wasn't a very deep woman. Other characters held promise, but we never really get to know them well. There were some interesting people on the police force but not enough time was spent with them.
Here are some of my gripes:
It's always nice to read about a solid, professional lesbian, and even better when it's a realistic story that doesn't have sex as a focal point. But aside from Kate, the other three lesbians we meet aren't that likable (and one is dead). Speaking of the dead one, I felt some of the characters's reactions to the woman being not just murdered, but having her face blown clear off, well, they just didn't ring true to me. And this little fishing town has only 49 residents (48 after the murder), yet the police only interview a handful of people about the crime. We also meet a few townspeople who are big suspects, but there's no closure to those characters. And in the end, a good portion of the town is headed for prison, considering there's only 48 people to begin with. I wish the population had not been set to 49, because statistically a lot of things didn't add up right.
But still, I really enjoyed reading this! I'd probably give it five stars as a beach book. But I think it wants to be a real crime novel. I don't feel it was deep enough or fleshed out enough to get 5 stars for that. I do give a million thanks to the author for writing a great lesbian main character. Kate is someone I would want to know in real life.
In the end, I can't give it five stars because I wouldn't recommend this to everyone. It's not necessarily going to please everyone who enjoys crime novels, though it's not a bad one, just not super meaty. It is excellent as a nice easy beach read. And I would recommend it to anyone looking for more novels with strong lesbian characters. It definitely hits the mark with that.
Many thanks to NetGalley for providing an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
I liked Kate Brannon, and would love to read more of this character, but no other character stood out as interesting or fleshed out. I rooted for Gina, but she wasn't a very deep woman. Other characters held promise, but we never really get to know them well. There were some interesting people on the police force but not enough time was spent with them.
Here are some of my gripes:
It's always nice to read about a solid, professional lesbian, and even better when it's a realistic story that doesn't have sex as a focal point. But aside from Kate, the other three lesbians we meet aren't that likable (and one is dead). Speaking of the dead one, I felt some of the characters's reactions to the woman being not just murdered, but having her face blown clear off, well, they just didn't ring true to me. And this little fishing town has only 49 residents (48 after the murder), yet the police only interview a handful of people about the crime. We also meet a few townspeople who are big suspects, but there's no closure to those characters. And in the end, a good portion of the town is headed for prison, considering there's only 48 people to begin with. I wish the population had not been set to 49, because statistically a lot of things didn't add up right.
But still, I really enjoyed reading this! I'd probably give it five stars as a beach book. But I think it wants to be a real crime novel. I don't feel it was deep enough or fleshed out enough to get 5 stars for that. I do give a million thanks to the author for writing a great lesbian main character. Kate is someone I would want to know in real life.
In the end, I can't give it five stars because I wouldn't recommend this to everyone. It's not necessarily going to please everyone who enjoys crime novels, though it's not a bad one, just not super meaty. It is excellent as a nice easy beach read. And I would recommend it to anyone looking for more novels with strong lesbian characters. It definitely hits the mark with that.
Many thanks to NetGalley for providing an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 23, 2020
I could almost hear and smell the sea as I read this book, the writing is that good. The mystery is an intricate one, the murder gruesome and plenty of plausible suspects. There's also angst between the MCs on top of their fledging romance. Everything builds up to a nail-biting action-packed final chapter!
July 12, 2020
I reread this story just before the release of Under Parr and I liked it ever more than the first time.
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