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Detective Sheridan Holler #1
Long Time Dead
DI Sheridan Holler is used to solving crimes on Liverpool’s streets, but after a decayed corpse turns up in a cemetery, she finds herself reopening not one but two cold cases. Seven years earlier, two women were gunned down and the only suspect, small-time drug dealer John Lively, was never seen again. Case closed. Until the body in the cemetery is identified as his.
Holler needs to work out if Lively was killed out of revenge, or was just a victim of the criminal world he inhabited. When shocking evidence is revealed about the murder weapon, Holler’s cold case starts to look hopeless once more.
But defeat is not an option. Driven by the unsolved and traumatic murder of her brother when they were children, DI Holler’s pursuit of justice is relentless. As old wounds are reopened, the police close in on the killer, but the threat of them striking again is all too real. Can DI Holler put the pieces of the puzzle together before anyone else winds up dead?
Holler needs to work out if Lively was killed out of revenge, or was just a victim of the criminal world he inhabited. When shocking evidence is revealed about the murder weapon, Holler’s cold case starts to look hopeless once more.
But defeat is not an option. Driven by the unsolved and traumatic murder of her brother when they were children, DI Holler’s pursuit of justice is relentless. As old wounds are reopened, the police close in on the killer, but the threat of them striking again is all too real. Can DI Holler put the pieces of the puzzle together before anyone else winds up dead?
393 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2024
About the author
T.M. Payne
3 books56 followersT.M. Payne’s Detective Sheridan Holler series will be published by Amazon Publishing in 2024 and 2025.
Agent: Broo Doherty, DHH Literary Agency
Editor: Victoria Haslam, Thomas & Mercer
Twitter: @Tinap66Payne
T. M. Payne was born in Lee-On-Solent, Hampshire and now lives on the Wirral with her wonderful partner.
Having worked in the criminal justice system for 18 years, the last 14 of which she was a Police Case Investigator within the Domestic Violence Unit, she has now taken a break to concentrate on her passion for writing crime novels.
She is crazy about animals and if you walk past her with your dog, she will probably ask if she can pat it on the head. Or take it home with her. Or both.
She loves laughing, Christmas, playing golf (badly) walking along New Brighton beach (not walking her dog because she hasn’t got one) snow, sunsets, family and friends.
She dislikes beetroot. Very much dislikes beetroot.
Agent: Broo Doherty, DHH Literary Agency
Editor: Victoria Haslam, Thomas & Mercer
Twitter: @Tinap66Payne
T. M. Payne was born in Lee-On-Solent, Hampshire and now lives on the Wirral with her wonderful partner.
Having worked in the criminal justice system for 18 years, the last 14 of which she was a Police Case Investigator within the Domestic Violence Unit, she has now taken a break to concentrate on her passion for writing crime novels.
She is crazy about animals and if you walk past her with your dog, she will probably ask if she can pat it on the head. Or take it home with her. Or both.
She loves laughing, Christmas, playing golf (badly) walking along New Brighton beach (not walking her dog because she hasn’t got one) snow, sunsets, family and friends.
She dislikes beetroot. Very much dislikes beetroot.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
August 1, 2024
3.5 rounded down
The storyline and plot are good, it has pace and there are twists. However, the start is disjointed and then the end also becomes that way, dragging the novel out unnecessarily. Until that point it’s a four star read but when my eyes start rolling with frustration it has to be downgraded to a 3. There are a lot of plot threads and some are unresolved- either they are a distraction or will be picked up in the next book?? Not sure if I’ll bother tbh.
The storyline and plot are good, it has pace and there are twists. However, the start is disjointed and then the end also becomes that way, dragging the novel out unnecessarily. Until that point it’s a four star read but when my eyes start rolling with frustration it has to be downgraded to a 3. There are a lot of plot threads and some are unresolved- either they are a distraction or will be picked up in the next book?? Not sure if I’ll bother tbh.
February 24, 2024
A highly recommended 5 star and more read !
What a fantastic start to a new series I can’t wait for the next one and I’m sure this is going to be one of my all time favourites going by the first book. From the very start I just fell in love with this read it kept me guessing all the way through and has one of the most satisfying end I have read. The characters are all superb and so well crafted , the humour is just spot on and had me laughing a lot especially the very lovely Maud !
The book is filled with unpredictable twists that I didn’t see coming and when you read a lot of mystery thrillers as I do that always a big bonus. I just can’t fault the read in any way and my only sadness is I have to wait for the next to find out what is going to be happening next.
My thanks to TM Payne…. well girl you did yourself proud this is an amazingly good read and one that’s not to be missed, please write the next one soon.
My thanks also to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for giving me the opportunity to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
What a fantastic start to a new series I can’t wait for the next one and I’m sure this is going to be one of my all time favourites going by the first book. From the very start I just fell in love with this read it kept me guessing all the way through and has one of the most satisfying end I have read. The characters are all superb and so well crafted , the humour is just spot on and had me laughing a lot especially the very lovely Maud !
The book is filled with unpredictable twists that I didn’t see coming and when you read a lot of mystery thrillers as I do that always a big bonus. I just can’t fault the read in any way and my only sadness is I have to wait for the next to find out what is going to be happening next.
My thanks to TM Payne…. well girl you did yourself proud this is an amazingly good read and one that’s not to be missed, please write the next one soon.
My thanks also to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for giving me the opportunity to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
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March 25, 2024I think a lot of people will like this book and follow the series but it's not for me.
'A Long Time Dead' has a good plot populated by lots of interesting and believable women.
The exposition was smooth, with information being disclosed not just by following DI Holler and her team but through what I learned following other characters. I liked the way this invited me to put the pieces together for myself and sometimes gave me the feeling that I was ahead of Holler and her team. I also liked that the police are shown as competent and collaborative, avoiding the cliché of the lone Detective working hard and still getting grief from their less-than-competent boss. The police procedures and the atmosphere in the team felt real to me.
I liked that most of the people who move the plot forward are women and that the women are very different from one another.
The story is set in Liverpool but I didn't feel any strong connection to the place or its people. The place names were right but other than that, this could have been in Manchester.
The writing is light and confident.The individual scenes, like the first killing and the one with the grave digger, are vivid, dramatic and memorable.
So why have I set it aside at 20%?
My problem was that I felt I was getting a camera-eye view of the events and the characters that never took me beneath the surface to deal with things a camera wouldn't catch. I know that this style works well for many people. It reminds me of some of Ann Cleeves' novels and, like those novels, I'd be happy to watch this as a TV programme but I wasn't getting enough traction to keep me engaged with it as a novel.
'A Long Time Dead' has a good plot populated by lots of interesting and believable women.
The exposition was smooth, with information being disclosed not just by following DI Holler and her team but through what I learned following other characters. I liked the way this invited me to put the pieces together for myself and sometimes gave me the feeling that I was ahead of Holler and her team. I also liked that the police are shown as competent and collaborative, avoiding the cliché of the lone Detective working hard and still getting grief from their less-than-competent boss. The police procedures and the atmosphere in the team felt real to me.
I liked that most of the people who move the plot forward are women and that the women are very different from one another.
The story is set in Liverpool but I didn't feel any strong connection to the place or its people. The place names were right but other than that, this could have been in Manchester.
The writing is light and confident.The individual scenes, like the first killing and the one with the grave digger, are vivid, dramatic and memorable.
So why have I set it aside at 20%?
My problem was that I felt I was getting a camera-eye view of the events and the characters that never took me beneath the surface to deal with things a camera wouldn't catch. I know that this style works well for many people. It reminds me of some of Ann Cleeves' novels and, like those novels, I'd be happy to watch this as a TV programme but I wasn't getting enough traction to keep me engaged with it as a novel.
August 20, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the eARC.
Wow, I absolutely loved this book, wish I could give it more than 5 stars!
DI Sheridan Holler is one of a cast of very likeable characters. I enjoyed the relationships between the many 'good guys' and hated the few bad ones. And I laughed at Maud, the cat, sooo cute!
The story is terrific, as is the way it's presented. It's clever, surprising and absolutely absorbing. And it has a lot of heart. I just can't say enough about it, it's that good. Hopefully there are many more in this series, because this first one is awesome. Highly recommended!
Wow, I absolutely loved this book, wish I could give it more than 5 stars!
DI Sheridan Holler is one of a cast of very likeable characters. I enjoyed the relationships between the many 'good guys' and hated the few bad ones. And I laughed at Maud, the cat, sooo cute!
The story is terrific, as is the way it's presented. It's clever, surprising and absolutely absorbing. And it has a lot of heart. I just can't say enough about it, it's that good. Hopefully there are many more in this series, because this first one is awesome. Highly recommended!
March 14, 2024
DI Sheridan Holler is called to a crime scene in a cemetery where a body has been uncovered by the grave digger. Who is the murder victim? How did they end up here? How were they killed? This book is updownable and the only reason I stopped was I needed sleep and to recharge the Kindle, lol!! The story is told over several time periods. DI Sheridan Holler, when she was a child, her brother Matthew was killed. Fast forward to the present day, she wants to find the killer. It is a plot full of twists and turns!! It is well written and very descriptive and I could see the locations used in my mind! The characters are well written and I enjoyed their interactions with each other. All the threads from the sub plots were all tied together with a dramatic ending! I highly recommend this book.
April 30, 2024
DNF ... bei Seite 204.
Hab die Hälfte gelesen und ich muss sagen, es reizt mich absolut nichts daran es zu ende zu lesen.
Die Ermittlerin ist für mich eine der langweiligsten, die ich jemals gelesen habe.
Und auch den Rest finde ich leider nicht sonderlich spannend.
Hab die Hälfte gelesen und ich muss sagen, es reizt mich absolut nichts daran es zu ende zu lesen.
Die Ermittlerin ist für mich eine der langweiligsten, die ich jemals gelesen habe.
Und auch den Rest finde ich leider nicht sonderlich spannend.
April 7, 2024
Another great Amazon first read! So glad I chose this one. The beginning of the book jumped between a few parts of the story which is something I usually find confusing but this quickly started to link up so I actually really enjoyed the way it was done.
I really liked the characters used in the book and the way you got to know them.
I have already pre-ordered the second book in the series which comes out in October and really hope that the ongoing story with Sheridan’s brother continues!
A great crime novel with other things such as romance added in to make it very wholesome!
I really liked the characters used in the book and the way you got to know them.
I have already pre-ordered the second book in the series which comes out in October and really hope that the ongoing story with Sheridan’s brother continues!
A great crime novel with other things such as romance added in to make it very wholesome!
March 11, 2024
When the body of a petty criminal is discovered some seven years after his disappearance it sparks the reopening of an investigation into a shooting that occurred at around the same time.
It’s a good solid, tense police procedural with an intriguing storyline. However, there were some things that I struggled with. It’s a bit hard to keep track of all the characters in the early stages, especially as some of them are rather one-dimensional. And although it’s set on Merseyside I didn’t really get a strong sense of place. There’s also a tendency to ‘head hop’ in parts rather than maintaining a consistent POV through each scene.
The plot is enough to get you through but this never quite manages to generate the shine needed to stand out in a crowded field.
Obtained free under the Amazon First Reads programme.
It’s a good solid, tense police procedural with an intriguing storyline. However, there were some things that I struggled with. It’s a bit hard to keep track of all the characters in the early stages, especially as some of them are rather one-dimensional. And although it’s set on Merseyside I didn’t really get a strong sense of place. There’s also a tendency to ‘head hop’ in parts rather than maintaining a consistent POV through each scene.
The plot is enough to get you through but this never quite manages to generate the shine needed to stand out in a crowded field.
Obtained free under the Amazon First Reads programme.
August 26, 2023
this is a new author for me and this first book in series is amazing. the story pulls you in from page one. Detective Sheridan Holler. has never forgotten her brother who was murdered they never found the killer.so she joined the force. to help others. Garry Lee is getting a grave ready. And he finds a body on the top. and its John Lively who killed a police officer and a woman who survived. but in a nursing home Joni works at that nursing home and looks after that victim Ellie. Its Sheridan and her team that has to put everything together. there a lot of twists and turns a very gripping read so looking forward to book 2. so recommend
February 13, 2024
From the prologue to the very last page I was engrossed in this novel.
The prologue begins with a shooting in a supermarket car park, fast forward seven years and DI Sheridan Holler is still trying to discover who killed her brother Matthew twenty seven years previously. But when a decomposed body is discovered and later revealed as John Lively, the man suspected of supermarket crime, her time and effort moves to that case.
With lots of characters you could be forgiven for wondering how they are all linked together but by the end of the novel all the threads come together to a satisfactory conclusion. I look forward to more in the series
The prologue begins with a shooting in a supermarket car park, fast forward seven years and DI Sheridan Holler is still trying to discover who killed her brother Matthew twenty seven years previously. But when a decomposed body is discovered and later revealed as John Lively, the man suspected of supermarket crime, her time and effort moves to that case.
With lots of characters you could be forgiven for wondering how they are all linked together but by the end of the novel all the threads come together to a satisfactory conclusion. I look forward to more in the series
March 5, 2024
Good read
New author for me but enjoyed this book. Liked the development of the characters and interesting story. Would read another
New author for me but enjoyed this book. Liked the development of the characters and interesting story. Would read another
September 5, 2023
Another detective story which I really enjoyed. I loved the writing style, the storyline and all the suspense, twists and turns till the end when the mystery was solved. I loved it! My favourite type of book I love to read.
March 26, 2024
Let me just say WOW! You know that feeling when you have just finished a book and you want to read everything the author has ever written? That is me at this moment; I just finished Long Time Dead, the first book in the DI Sheridan Holler Thriller series written by T. M. Payne. I so thoroughly enjoyed it that I hated to stop reading to sleep. DI Sheridan Holler is a single, feisty, respected detective of the Liverpool Police Department. Her life and her parents lives were devastated by the unsloved murder of her her 12 year old brother almost 30 years ago. That tragedy was the driving force in Sheridan's decision to join the force and her commitment to solving his murder has never wavered.
The story begins in December, 1997 when two women entering the supermarket are shot by a runaway driver on a motorcycle. One woman, Kate Armitage, a policewoman died. The other woman, Elle Sands, a local newspaper editor, suffered severe head injuries. After a long hospitalization Ellie was transferred to a long term nursing home.
Fast forward seven years, and a gravedigger discovers the remains of a body burried on top of a woman who died seven years ago. When Kate and her team begin investigating unsolved missing persons cases around that time, the name John Lively comes up. He had been a local drug user and often appeared on the police radar, especially that of Kate Armitage. Could the body be John Lively? Oh there is so much more to share, but I don't want to give anything away. Suffice to say Long Time Dead is a terrific thriller that will captivate your interest from the first page to the last. It is a fast-paced novel; the sub- plots and characters intriguing- its just a wonderful read. Oh and be sure and read the acknowledgements- they are a hoot. Long Time Dead is the first T.M. Payne work I have read; it will not be my last. Many thanks to NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer Publishing and the author for the opportunity to read and review an ARC of the book. My review is voluntary and reflects my honest opinion. 5 stars.
The story begins in December, 1997 when two women entering the supermarket are shot by a runaway driver on a motorcycle. One woman, Kate Armitage, a policewoman died. The other woman, Elle Sands, a local newspaper editor, suffered severe head injuries. After a long hospitalization Ellie was transferred to a long term nursing home.
Fast forward seven years, and a gravedigger discovers the remains of a body burried on top of a woman who died seven years ago. When Kate and her team begin investigating unsolved missing persons cases around that time, the name John Lively comes up. He had been a local drug user and often appeared on the police radar, especially that of Kate Armitage. Could the body be John Lively? Oh there is so much more to share, but I don't want to give anything away. Suffice to say Long Time Dead is a terrific thriller that will captivate your interest from the first page to the last. It is a fast-paced novel; the sub- plots and characters intriguing- its just a wonderful read. Oh and be sure and read the acknowledgements- they are a hoot. Long Time Dead is the first T.M. Payne work I have read; it will not be my last. Many thanks to NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer Publishing and the author for the opportunity to read and review an ARC of the book. My review is voluntary and reflects my honest opinion. 5 stars.
March 31, 2024
Seven years ago two women were gunned down outside a Liverpool supermarket, the suspect was believed to be drug dealer John Lively but he was never caught and the case remained unsolved, that is until now, when a body discovered in a cemetery is identified as the missing suspect. DI Sheridan Holler and her team now need to figure out when and why he died but, when new evidence comes to light about the murder weapon, it throws both cases into turmoil. Alongside all this Sheridan is desperate to find out who murdered her brother when he was a child and she won't rest until she does, but these cases must be dealt with first before anyone else is killed.
Long Time Dead is the first in this detective series, it's a multi layered plot with plenty going on and the author throws in a few twists along the way just to keep us readers on our toes. I felt, at first, that it was a bit too descriptive but as the story went on that seemed to settle down, picking up a good pace and I was hooked for the rest of the book. This was more than just a crime novel though, the author injects a certain level of comedy into her writing too, which shone through in the chapters involving Maud, the cat. There are some great characters in this novel, I particularly liked Sheridan and look forward to getting to know her, and the rest of the team, better in the next book. A great read from a new to me author and I can't wait for book two!
I'd like to thank Thomas & Mercer and Netgalley for the approval, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
Long Time Dead is the first in this detective series, it's a multi layered plot with plenty going on and the author throws in a few twists along the way just to keep us readers on our toes. I felt, at first, that it was a bit too descriptive but as the story went on that seemed to settle down, picking up a good pace and I was hooked for the rest of the book. This was more than just a crime novel though, the author injects a certain level of comedy into her writing too, which shone through in the chapters involving Maud, the cat. There are some great characters in this novel, I particularly liked Sheridan and look forward to getting to know her, and the rest of the team, better in the next book. A great read from a new to me author and I can't wait for book two!
I'd like to thank Thomas & Mercer and Netgalley for the approval, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
November 10, 2023
When a gravedigger digs up the skeletal remains of a male victim at a cemetery, DI Sheridan Holler and her colleague DS Anna Markinson with the Hale Street Police Station are called in to investigate.
The body was buried atop a coffin of a female who died several years earlier. The grave was reopened because her husband recently passed away and they were meant to be buried beside each other.
The victim is later identified as John Lively, a man who shot an off-duty police officer and another female in a supermarket seven years ago. Fortunately, the unknown female survived but the cop didn’t.
Soon after the shooting John Lively disappeared and is still wanted in connection with the shooting.
Apparently John Lively was shot to death and has been dead for seven years. Its now up to DI Sheridan Holler and her team to find out how John ended up buried in a cemetery.
Meanwhile DI Sheridan Holler’s still looking into a cold case involving her brother Andrew Holler who was murdered when he was fourteen years old.
Overall, this is an enjoyable detective story with engaging characters, an interesting plot, and terrific pacing. Would recommend
Thank you to T. M. Payne, NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the arc of this book.
The body was buried atop a coffin of a female who died several years earlier. The grave was reopened because her husband recently passed away and they were meant to be buried beside each other.
The victim is later identified as John Lively, a man who shot an off-duty police officer and another female in a supermarket seven years ago. Fortunately, the unknown female survived but the cop didn’t.
Soon after the shooting John Lively disappeared and is still wanted in connection with the shooting.
Apparently John Lively was shot to death and has been dead for seven years. Its now up to DI Sheridan Holler and her team to find out how John ended up buried in a cemetery.
Meanwhile DI Sheridan Holler’s still looking into a cold case involving her brother Andrew Holler who was murdered when he was fourteen years old.
Overall, this is an enjoyable detective story with engaging characters, an interesting plot, and terrific pacing. Would recommend
Thank you to T. M. Payne, NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the arc of this book.
February 13, 2024
From the prologue to the very last page I was engrossed in this novel.
The prologue begins with a shooting in a supermarket car park, fast forward seven years and DI Sheridan Holler is still trying to discover who killed her brother Matthew twenty seven years previously. But when a decomposed body is discovered and later revealed as John Lively, the man suspected of supermarket crime, her time and effort moves to that case.
With lots of characters you could be forgiven for wondering how they are all linked together but by the end of the novel all the threads come together to a satisfactory conclusion. I look forward to more in the series
The prologue begins with a shooting in a supermarket car park, fast forward seven years and DI Sheridan Holler is still trying to discover who killed her brother Matthew twenty seven years previously. But when a decomposed body is discovered and later revealed as John Lively, the man suspected of supermarket crime, her time and effort moves to that case.
With lots of characters you could be forgiven for wondering how they are all linked together but by the end of the novel all the threads come together to a satisfactory conclusion. I look forward to more in the series
March 9, 2024
Long Time Dead by T. M. Payne is an absolutely superb crime novel that grabs you from the very beginning and won't let go.
Payne expertly devises a story that is full of suspense, twists, surprises, and cryptic clues. The character of DI Sheridan Holler is wonderfully complex and relatable, as are the supporting characters. The setting of the police station is realistic and believable, and I even learned a bit about England along the way.
The twists in the story, which is told from various points of view over various time periods, are shocking and yet make sense, causing you to wonder how you didn't see them coming. And just when you think all of the twists have been revealed, a few more come along and shock you all over again.
The ending wraps up nicely, and leaves you wanting to read more by this phenomenal storyteller.
I sincerely hope that this gets picked up for a crime series. I'd definitely tune in!
I am so happy to have received an ARC of #LongTimeDead from #NetGalley and I look forward to book two in the series.
Payne expertly devises a story that is full of suspense, twists, surprises, and cryptic clues. The character of DI Sheridan Holler is wonderfully complex and relatable, as are the supporting characters. The setting of the police station is realistic and believable, and I even learned a bit about England along the way.
The twists in the story, which is told from various points of view over various time periods, are shocking and yet make sense, causing you to wonder how you didn't see them coming. And just when you think all of the twists have been revealed, a few more come along and shock you all over again.
The ending wraps up nicely, and leaves you wanting to read more by this phenomenal storyteller.
I sincerely hope that this gets picked up for a crime series. I'd definitely tune in!
I am so happy to have received an ARC of #LongTimeDead from #NetGalley and I look forward to book two in the series.
May 15, 2024
Discovered this debut book by Tina Payne on social media. A crime/police procedural novel with a lead female detective is definitely my favourite book genre.
I downloaded the Audible version of this book and loved the narrator Heather Bleasdale she had me gripped from the start.
The body of John Lively a wanted criminal is discovered in the grave of another person when gravediggers open the grave to bury another person. Sheridan Holler is the detective leading the case. What follows are twists and turns.
The authors former career in law enforcement shines through making this book very authentic. Now eagerly awaiting book two.
I downloaded the Audible version of this book and loved the narrator Heather Bleasdale she had me gripped from the start.
The body of John Lively a wanted criminal is discovered in the grave of another person when gravediggers open the grave to bury another person. Sheridan Holler is the detective leading the case. What follows are twists and turns.
The authors former career in law enforcement shines through making this book very authentic. Now eagerly awaiting book two.
March 20, 2024
This is such a great story! A cold case that turns out to be the hottest case in town and nothing is as it seemed to be! Sheridan, a fierceless Detective Inspector, who leads a very close-knit team, is leading the investigation of who is the male found buried in somebody else's grave and discovers that he was accused of killing a Police Officer and injuring a journalist seven years prior. This will unravel a deep conspiracy to cover up theft and murder. Long Time Dead is well-written, with likeable and credible characters, and full of action. Highly recommended!
I thank the author, his publisher, and NetGalley for this ARC.
I thank the author, his publisher, and NetGalley for this ARC.
March 8, 2024
A really entertaining murder mystery with plenty of twists and turns- it is obvious that the author has spent time in the justice system
March 6, 2024
Diamonds Are Forever
Brilliant first book from a talented author, especially liked the explanations at the end of the book which explained so much of the story.
I can very easily recommend this book, cannot wait for the second book later on this year.
It was lovely of her to thank everyone that helped her to complete the book and bring it to her readers.
Brilliant first book from a talented author, especially liked the explanations at the end of the book which explained so much of the story.
I can very easily recommend this book, cannot wait for the second book later on this year.
It was lovely of her to thank everyone that helped her to complete the book and bring it to her readers.
March 4, 2024
Enthralling story
Sheridan was a Detective and a very good one. I liked the description of her, which was so well crafted that she felt real and exciting. This book was addictive and I was glued to the pages, right up until the very last page. A brilliant start to a new crime series.
Sheridan was a Detective and a very good one. I liked the description of her, which was so well crafted that she felt real and exciting. This book was addictive and I was glued to the pages, right up until the very last page. A brilliant start to a new crime series.
March 7, 2024
Just brilliant. I could not put it down. Does anyone know when the next book is due please.
March 9, 2024
Totally gripped by this book and was a bit gutted to find I have to wait until October to read the next book in the series. The lead characters are likeable, the story line kept me guessing and there were moments that had me chuckling out loud. I didn’t want to put it down
March 10, 2024
Excellent read!
I really enjoyed this book! Not a dull page all through. I
thought the plot was excellent and the characters extremely likeable!!
I really enjoyed this book! Not a dull page all through. I
thought the plot was excellent and the characters extremely likeable!!
July 4, 2024
I’d heard good things about T M Payne’s books so maybe I just read the wrong one because this was just a bit meh.
This is a good police procedural with a strong female character at the forefront. The story begins 7 years ago with a case that remains unsolved today. However, I found it quite difficult to keep track of all the characters at the start and found it didn’t really get easier through the book, especially as some of these characters were quite one dimensional.
I also found the plot had too many threads to it sometimes and I found it hard to work out what the main focus of the book was. I think this made the book feel a bit confusing and it became a bit waffly because I wasn’t sure what was actually relevant. It also made it quite forgettable because there wasn’t a hugely strong plot line for me.
All in all, it was ok but I probably won’t be picking up the next book.
This is a good police procedural with a strong female character at the forefront. The story begins 7 years ago with a case that remains unsolved today. However, I found it quite difficult to keep track of all the characters at the start and found it didn’t really get easier through the book, especially as some of these characters were quite one dimensional.
I also found the plot had too many threads to it sometimes and I found it hard to work out what the main focus of the book was. I think this made the book feel a bit confusing and it became a bit waffly because I wasn’t sure what was actually relevant. It also made it quite forgettable because there wasn’t a hugely strong plot line for me.
All in all, it was ok but I probably won’t be picking up the next book.
October 11, 2023
A great read. An action packed police procedural with several twists along the way. I like the characters , the detectives are well rounded individuals . The plot is set in different timeperiods but does all come together (well mostly) . I liked the descriptions, the way that conversations are written. It all just reads so easily and although the crimes do provoke a feeling of sadness, they do seem realistic, as does the investigation into the crimes.
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC. I will definately look for more from this author
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC. I will definately look for more from this author
July 26, 2024
Long Time Dead is T.M. Payne's debut novel and the first book in her DI Sheridan Holler series, which is just as well as otherwise I'd be forced to pester her to write more! I love discovering new authors, especially when their books are as satisfying as Long Time Dead – I already know I'm going to be a long-time fan of this brilliant series!
I was hooked right from the prologue, which opens in December 1997, with an amusing conversation between a mother and her young daughter. However, their outing is suddenly shattered by an event which will rip apart several lives, as a gunman roars into the supermarket car park on his motorbike and opens fire. As the shoppers flee in abject panic, two women are left for dead, and seven years later, DI Sheridan Holler is going to have to reinvestigate a case which had seemed cut and dried.
We're introduced to Sheridan in the courtroom as she faces the defence barrister in a domestic violence case. It's immediately clear that she isn't averse to bending the rules to secure a conviction but she is evidently motivated by compassion and a desire to protect the vulnerable; Sheridan is far from being a corrupt cop. Detective Sergeant Anna Markinson obviously has her back, and one of the strengths of this novel is the relationship Sheridan has with her colleagues. There's a real sense of camaraderie between them, from top to bottom, and I particularly enjoyed her interactions with her boss, DCI Max Hall. T.M. Payne's own experience in the criminal justice system shows and the workplace banter flows naturally and is believable throughout.
Their hopes for a quiet Christmas are scuppered when a body is discovered in a cemetery. Of course, that in itself isn't unexpected – but this body is a murder victim found in somebody else's grave. He is soon identified as being John Lively, the man suspected of the shooting seven years ago, which resulted in the death of a police officer and left another woman with a life-changing brain injury. Lively had been a small-time drug addict, and with apparently strong evidence linking him to the death of PC Kate Armitage, there are a number of people who could have wanted him dead. However, it becomes clear that things are quite so straightforward and the gripping plot is full of twists and turns before the truth is finally revealed.
As Sheridan and her team examine this hot again cold case, they are desperate to find out whether the other victim of the shooting, Ellie Sands can shed any light on what happened. Unfortunately, Ellie's brain injury has rendered her unable to communicate and she now resides in The Gables Nursing Home. The scenes set within the home introduce some more characters who become integral to the storyline; most notably the kind, perceptive Joni, who takes a special interest in Ellie. Away from the home, Joni's friend Sam moves in with her and I loved their friendship. It would be remiss of me not to mention Sam's cat, Maud here too – I adored Maud and I'm sure I won't be the only one, she really is quite the character! Sam herself is fabulous too and without giving too much away, I was thrilled by what develops here and look forward to seeing her return in the next book.
While Long Time Dead is a compulsive, gritty mystery, it is also infused throughout with genuine warmth. The empathetic portrayal of the characters' personal lives adds a further layer of richness to the story, ensuring I became invested in them as well as intrigued by the investigation into both John Lively and Kate Armitage's deaths. Sheridan joined the police after a tragedy in her own childhood and she is still haunted by her brother's murder. There's a fascinating subplot here which promises to be expanded upon further as the series progresses. In the meantime, it gives us the opportunity to understand a little more about what drives her to so resolutely strive for justice.
The sense of place is impeccable and although never rose-tinted, is a real love letter to Liverpool. Dark, twisty and poignant yet imbued with humour and full of heart, Long Time Dead is a superbly absorbing debut from an exciting new talent. I loved it and I can't wait for more!
I was hooked right from the prologue, which opens in December 1997, with an amusing conversation between a mother and her young daughter. However, their outing is suddenly shattered by an event which will rip apart several lives, as a gunman roars into the supermarket car park on his motorbike and opens fire. As the shoppers flee in abject panic, two women are left for dead, and seven years later, DI Sheridan Holler is going to have to reinvestigate a case which had seemed cut and dried.
We're introduced to Sheridan in the courtroom as she faces the defence barrister in a domestic violence case. It's immediately clear that she isn't averse to bending the rules to secure a conviction but she is evidently motivated by compassion and a desire to protect the vulnerable; Sheridan is far from being a corrupt cop. Detective Sergeant Anna Markinson obviously has her back, and one of the strengths of this novel is the relationship Sheridan has with her colleagues. There's a real sense of camaraderie between them, from top to bottom, and I particularly enjoyed her interactions with her boss, DCI Max Hall. T.M. Payne's own experience in the criminal justice system shows and the workplace banter flows naturally and is believable throughout.
Their hopes for a quiet Christmas are scuppered when a body is discovered in a cemetery. Of course, that in itself isn't unexpected – but this body is a murder victim found in somebody else's grave. He is soon identified as being John Lively, the man suspected of the shooting seven years ago, which resulted in the death of a police officer and left another woman with a life-changing brain injury. Lively had been a small-time drug addict, and with apparently strong evidence linking him to the death of PC Kate Armitage, there are a number of people who could have wanted him dead. However, it becomes clear that things are quite so straightforward and the gripping plot is full of twists and turns before the truth is finally revealed.
As Sheridan and her team examine this hot again cold case, they are desperate to find out whether the other victim of the shooting, Ellie Sands can shed any light on what happened. Unfortunately, Ellie's brain injury has rendered her unable to communicate and she now resides in The Gables Nursing Home. The scenes set within the home introduce some more characters who become integral to the storyline; most notably the kind, perceptive Joni, who takes a special interest in Ellie. Away from the home, Joni's friend Sam moves in with her and I loved their friendship. It would be remiss of me not to mention Sam's cat, Maud here too – I adored Maud and I'm sure I won't be the only one, she really is quite the character! Sam herself is fabulous too and without giving too much away, I was thrilled by what develops here and look forward to seeing her return in the next book.
While Long Time Dead is a compulsive, gritty mystery, it is also infused throughout with genuine warmth. The empathetic portrayal of the characters' personal lives adds a further layer of richness to the story, ensuring I became invested in them as well as intrigued by the investigation into both John Lively and Kate Armitage's deaths. Sheridan joined the police after a tragedy in her own childhood and she is still haunted by her brother's murder. There's a fascinating subplot here which promises to be expanded upon further as the series progresses. In the meantime, it gives us the opportunity to understand a little more about what drives her to so resolutely strive for justice.
The sense of place is impeccable and although never rose-tinted, is a real love letter to Liverpool. Dark, twisty and poignant yet imbued with humour and full of heart, Long Time Dead is a superbly absorbing debut from an exciting new talent. I loved it and I can't wait for more!
May 19, 2024
There’s a lot going on in Long Time Dead and not all of it is resolved by the end of the novel so I suspect they will appear in future books in the series.
Sheridan Holler is very good at her job. She decided to join the Police after her brother was killed when she was a teenager. His body was found in a local park. No one has ever been accused of his murder and Sheridan is still determined to find her brother’s killer no matter how long it takes.
The body of John Lively is found buried in an old woman’s grave when the gravediggers are preparing to inter the body of her recently deceased husband. John Lively has been wanted for years. He killed a serving policewoman and shot a bystander in the same incident. The bystander, Ellie Sands, was shot in the head and suffered brain damage that appeared to leave it unable to communicate in any way. John Lively was a drug dealer and had been pulled over several times by the policewoman and her partner, Jeff Nichols. The evidence that it was John Lively who fired the gun that day was overwhelming. The gun was left at the scene and only had Lively’s finger prints on it.
Now Lively’s body has turned up and it leads to some interesting questions. Was he simply taken out by a rival drug gang at some point or is the truth a lot more complicated? Yes, you’ve guessed it, it’s a lot more complicated.
The pace of this novel is quite breathless. It is reasonably well written and the main plot line is strong. For some reason, for me, there’s too much going on alongside the main plot line with ill bosses, domestic violence, new romance, a characterful cat, the long dead brother, unpleasant work colleagues and on and on. I have given it three stars and I would probably read the second book if it came my way.
Two old friends , James and Hugh, both just past the sixty mark, are in relationships with much younger women. James has been together with Kate for eight years and she has lived in his old house in Oxford for most of that time with her now fourteen year old daughter, Joss. Hugh married Julia around the same time and they have twin boys of seven.
Everything seems perfect in both relationships until one dark January night when James knocks the elderly Miss Beatrice Batchelor off her bike. It is a gentle collision but Beatrice is rightly angry and James is mortified. He resolves to visit Beatrice until she is completely recovered. This turns into a significant relationship for both of them. For some reason, this angers Kate. Instead of her usual calm demeanor, she cracks and calls James a silly old fool. Neither of them minds the silly or the fool but the old hangs in the air between them.
Meanwhile Hugh has had a successful televelsion career for decades but he knows it can’t last. Meanwhile his talented and supremely practical wife has come to the same conclusion and is starting to lay the foundations for a carrer herself to take over the financial responsibilities. This turns out to be a far from smooth transition for either of them.
I very much enjoyed this look at age and aging, relationships and self worth. I aspire to be as clear headed as Beatrice and as dependable as James. I don’t want to be anything like James’s Uncle Leonard!
The echo of old books by Barbara Davis read 5th and 6th February
Ashland is the owner of a second hand book store. While she was growing up through a difficult family life, books had always been her safe harbour. Actually this is more unusual because of her special ability: she can sense the emotional echoes of the people who have handled the books she comes across. Echoes that might not be bringers of positive energy. Still Ashland finds them fascinating. We learn Ashlyn’s history as we go along. Perhaps her safe harbour has become more of a hidey hole over time, understandable after everything she has been through.
Sheridan Holler is very good at her job. She decided to join the Police after her brother was killed when she was a teenager. His body was found in a local park. No one has ever been accused of his murder and Sheridan is still determined to find her brother’s killer no matter how long it takes.
The body of John Lively is found buried in an old woman’s grave when the gravediggers are preparing to inter the body of her recently deceased husband. John Lively has been wanted for years. He killed a serving policewoman and shot a bystander in the same incident. The bystander, Ellie Sands, was shot in the head and suffered brain damage that appeared to leave it unable to communicate in any way. John Lively was a drug dealer and had been pulled over several times by the policewoman and her partner, Jeff Nichols. The evidence that it was John Lively who fired the gun that day was overwhelming. The gun was left at the scene and only had Lively’s finger prints on it.
Now Lively’s body has turned up and it leads to some interesting questions. Was he simply taken out by a rival drug gang at some point or is the truth a lot more complicated? Yes, you’ve guessed it, it’s a lot more complicated.
The pace of this novel is quite breathless. It is reasonably well written and the main plot line is strong. For some reason, for me, there’s too much going on alongside the main plot line with ill bosses, domestic violence, new romance, a characterful cat, the long dead brother, unpleasant work colleagues and on and on. I have given it three stars and I would probably read the second book if it came my way.
Two old friends , James and Hugh, both just past the sixty mark, are in relationships with much younger women. James has been together with Kate for eight years and she has lived in his old house in Oxford for most of that time with her now fourteen year old daughter, Joss. Hugh married Julia around the same time and they have twin boys of seven.
Everything seems perfect in both relationships until one dark January night when James knocks the elderly Miss Beatrice Batchelor off her bike. It is a gentle collision but Beatrice is rightly angry and James is mortified. He resolves to visit Beatrice until she is completely recovered. This turns into a significant relationship for both of them. For some reason, this angers Kate. Instead of her usual calm demeanor, she cracks and calls James a silly old fool. Neither of them minds the silly or the fool but the old hangs in the air between them.
Meanwhile Hugh has had a successful televelsion career for decades but he knows it can’t last. Meanwhile his talented and supremely practical wife has come to the same conclusion and is starting to lay the foundations for a carrer herself to take over the financial responsibilities. This turns out to be a far from smooth transition for either of them.
I very much enjoyed this look at age and aging, relationships and self worth. I aspire to be as clear headed as Beatrice and as dependable as James. I don’t want to be anything like James’s Uncle Leonard!
The echo of old books by Barbara Davis read 5th and 6th February
Ashland is the owner of a second hand book store. While she was growing up through a difficult family life, books had always been her safe harbour. Actually this is more unusual because of her special ability: she can sense the emotional echoes of the people who have handled the books she comes across. Echoes that might not be bringers of positive energy. Still Ashland finds them fascinating. We learn Ashlyn’s history as we go along. Perhaps her safe harbour has become more of a hidey hole over time, understandable after everything she has been through.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2024
Don't you just love it when you read the first in a new crime series and you are immediately hooked? I was totally engrossed in this one from the shocking and enticing prologue, right through to the closing pages. This was final holiday read, I finished it on the plane on the way home and then immediately bought a digital copy for my other half. He finished it last night and enjoyed it too.
Sheridan Holler joined the police for one reason. Her brother was murdered when she was a child, his case was never solved, justice was never done and it is this tragedy that spurs Sheridan on, every single day. She's a damn good copper though, working in Liverpool, with a great team around her.
This story centres around two cold cases. When a grave digger finds a decaying corpse buried on top of an elderly woman, in her burial plot, Sheridan is called onto the case. The corpse is identified as well-known local drug dealer John Lively. Lively was the only suspect in the murder of a female police officer seven years ago. She and a civilian were shot in a supermarket car park, the civilian survived but has life-altering head injuries, she can no longer communicate with anyone.
Initially, it is thought that Lively was probably murdered by a rival drug gang. He wasn't a pleasant man, he had many enemies. However, further investigation into the weapon that killed him reveals astonishing facts, the historical case is turned on its head and Sheridan's work is really cut out for her.
What follows is a complex, multi woven tale of greed and double crossing. There are characters who the reader will despise, people who are only interested in their own gains. People who are supposed to be the backbone of society, yet use their status to only achieve bad things.
Running alongside Sheridan's current cases are glimpses into the murder of her brother, she often feels helpless about this, she really wants to be able to report back to her family, she wants justice. There's a lot about Sheridan's personal life and for me, this added so much to the story. I like to know more about a lead character, what makes them tick, what makes them happy, what annoys them.
The thrilling, fast paced lead up to the finale is breathtaking, I felt like I was holding my breath for many pages. It is so well structured and so totally unexpected. The perfect ending to a fine crime novel. I am looking forward to reading more from T M Payne, certainly an author to watch out for. Recommended by me.
Sheridan Holler joined the police for one reason. Her brother was murdered when she was a child, his case was never solved, justice was never done and it is this tragedy that spurs Sheridan on, every single day. She's a damn good copper though, working in Liverpool, with a great team around her.
This story centres around two cold cases. When a grave digger finds a decaying corpse buried on top of an elderly woman, in her burial plot, Sheridan is called onto the case. The corpse is identified as well-known local drug dealer John Lively. Lively was the only suspect in the murder of a female police officer seven years ago. She and a civilian were shot in a supermarket car park, the civilian survived but has life-altering head injuries, she can no longer communicate with anyone.
Initially, it is thought that Lively was probably murdered by a rival drug gang. He wasn't a pleasant man, he had many enemies. However, further investigation into the weapon that killed him reveals astonishing facts, the historical case is turned on its head and Sheridan's work is really cut out for her.
What follows is a complex, multi woven tale of greed and double crossing. There are characters who the reader will despise, people who are only interested in their own gains. People who are supposed to be the backbone of society, yet use their status to only achieve bad things.
Running alongside Sheridan's current cases are glimpses into the murder of her brother, she often feels helpless about this, she really wants to be able to report back to her family, she wants justice. There's a lot about Sheridan's personal life and for me, this added so much to the story. I like to know more about a lead character, what makes them tick, what makes them happy, what annoys them.
The thrilling, fast paced lead up to the finale is breathtaking, I felt like I was holding my breath for many pages. It is so well structured and so totally unexpected. The perfect ending to a fine crime novel. I am looking forward to reading more from T M Payne, certainly an author to watch out for. Recommended by me.
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