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Detective Gina Harte #10
Her Dying Wish
Kerstin is wide awake. While her family sleeps around her, the devastating secret her husband just told her is spinning through her mind. Does she really know the man she married? And are her children still safe in this small town?
She jumps as she hears a sound from outside. Peering into the inky darkness, her eyes focus on movement at the bottom of the garden. Someone is out there.
She watches as the figure strikes a single match. Kerstin gasps at the sight of the face staring back at her, smiling, as if enjoying her fear.
A car door slams and the figure makes a dash for the trees, leaving something behind – a small memorial candle. As it flickers in the darkness, Kerstin knows exactly what it means. Someone is coming for her, and her family is in terrible danger…
Fans of Angela Marsons, Cara Hunter and Clare Mackintosh will love this utterly gripping crime novel. Her Dying Wish will keep you up all night!
She jumps as she hears a sound from outside. Peering into the inky darkness, her eyes focus on movement at the bottom of the garden. Someone is out there.
She watches as the figure strikes a single match. Kerstin gasps at the sight of the face staring back at her, smiling, as if enjoying her fear.
A car door slams and the figure makes a dash for the trees, leaving something behind – a small memorial candle. As it flickers in the darkness, Kerstin knows exactly what it means. Someone is coming for her, and her family is in terrible danger…
Fans of Angela Marsons, Cara Hunter and Clare Mackintosh will love this utterly gripping crime novel. Her Dying Wish will keep you up all night!
367 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 16, 2021
About the author
Carla Kovach
36 books812 followersCarla Kovach was born in Birmingham, UK and now resides in Redditch, Worcestershire. Author of supernatural drama 'Flame,' psychological thriller 'To Let,' crime thriller 'Whispers Beneath the Pines, and romantic comedy 'Meet Me at Marmaris Castle.' Carla also writes stage and screen plays, some of which have been produced in the Worcestershire area.
Her new novel 'The Next Girl,' is available for preorder now. (Published by Bookouture).
Her new novel 'The Next Girl,' is available for preorder now. (Published by Bookouture).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
December 19, 2021
A detective with a secret, a candle left outside a house, a match is struck, a house fire, a journalist who won’t quit and a mystery.
This book ten in the Detective Gina Harte Series, and I have only read one other book in the series (Book #3). Would it have been nice to know more of the backstory? Yes, but at the same time this did work well as a stand-alone for me.
While investigating her current case, Gina is being pursued by a local journalist who wants to get to the bottom of the death of her husband years ago. In her current case, a man is dead after an arson at his house. With most books of this type, the detectives are running out of time as their backs are against the wall. This is not exception. There are secrets, twists, and turns in this book.
An enjoyable read which had me wondering what was next for Gina and would her secret ever see the light of day?
3.5 stars
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
This book ten in the Detective Gina Harte Series, and I have only read one other book in the series (Book #3). Would it have been nice to know more of the backstory? Yes, but at the same time this did work well as a stand-alone for me.
While investigating her current case, Gina is being pursued by a local journalist who wants to get to the bottom of the death of her husband years ago. In her current case, a man is dead after an arson at his house. With most books of this type, the detectives are running out of time as their backs are against the wall. This is not exception. There are secrets, twists, and turns in this book.
An enjoyable read which had me wondering what was next for Gina and would her secret ever see the light of day?
3.5 stars
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
November 8, 2021
DI Gina Harte #10
3.5 stars rounded down.
The past is catching up with Gina as journalist Pete Bloxwich is pursuing her over the death of her husband Terry many years ago. In addition, a fatal arson attack which becomes a desperate race against time and so it’s fair to say that Gina has a lot on her plate.
The premise of this latest instalment is a good one with a blend of the personal backstory of Gina combined with a serious inquiry. There’s plenty of pain and anguish for several people with desperate manipulation, abuse and threats from several sources. The police team characters are all good especially Gina, she’s an interesting central protagonist in that she’s flawed, most certainly has baggage and is a dogged and brave police officer. There’s plenty going on in this one to keep the interest with many a plot twist and turn.
However, I feel that some of the dialogue is unrealistic and strikes a jarring note and there’s repetition in places. For the first 70% or so it’s a dynamic storyline but it becomes overly dramatic in the last part and I can’t entirely buy into it, however, other readers may enjoy the excitement of it. The journalist storyline I find to be somewhat unrealistic in the way it evolves and I highly doubt that the goading Gina receives would happen in the format it does as it could be used against them but hey, it’s fiction!!!
Overall, I may be an outlier with this one as it’s not my favourite of the series so be sure to check out other reviews.
With thanks to Netgalley and especially to Bookouture for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
3.5 stars rounded down.
The past is catching up with Gina as journalist Pete Bloxwich is pursuing her over the death of her husband Terry many years ago. In addition, a fatal arson attack which becomes a desperate race against time and so it’s fair to say that Gina has a lot on her plate.
The premise of this latest instalment is a good one with a blend of the personal backstory of Gina combined with a serious inquiry. There’s plenty of pain and anguish for several people with desperate manipulation, abuse and threats from several sources. The police team characters are all good especially Gina, she’s an interesting central protagonist in that she’s flawed, most certainly has baggage and is a dogged and brave police officer. There’s plenty going on in this one to keep the interest with many a plot twist and turn.
However, I feel that some of the dialogue is unrealistic and strikes a jarring note and there’s repetition in places. For the first 70% or so it’s a dynamic storyline but it becomes overly dramatic in the last part and I can’t entirely buy into it, however, other readers may enjoy the excitement of it. The journalist storyline I find to be somewhat unrealistic in the way it evolves and I highly doubt that the goading Gina receives would happen in the format it does as it could be used against them but hey, it’s fiction!!!
Overall, I may be an outlier with this one as it’s not my favourite of the series so be sure to check out other reviews.
With thanks to Netgalley and especially to Bookouture for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
December 18, 2021
This book reads much better if you have read the earlier ones as there are things from DI Gina Harte’s past that come back to haunt her.
A man, Glen Chapman, dies in a house fire that was deliberately lit. Strangely, the police also find a small candle in a glass jar sitting on the bird bath in the garden - what does it mean? Luckily his wife, Faith, and their two children were not at home as Faith had walked out a couple of days ago after having enough abuse and humiliation from her husband. A day or two later the same thing happens and another man is burnt to death in his home. Another candle in a jar is found.
The police struggle to work out what links these killings, if anything, but are certain of one thing - there are likely to be more deaths. Throw a missing child into the mix and Gina and her team are at their wits end. The longer the child is missing, the less chance he will be found alive.
Meanwhile Gina is being hounded by reporter Pete Bloxwich who is a real bottom feeder. He has been egged on to write a speculative article about Terry’s death (he fell down the stairs) claiming that Gina had a hand in it and didn’t call for an ambulance soon enough. Terry’s mother Hetty and brother Stephen are behind the article. They never believed Gina when she described how Terry used to beat her in his drunken rages. Bloxwich claims he wants to tell her side of the story but either way she thinks this will ruin her career.
This is the closest I’ve seen her come to unravelling as her personal and professional lives collide. The tension on Gina and her team was palpable but the police still don’t know what is driving this murder spree. The truth, when it is finally revealed, is chilling and again illustrates that the fallout from a violent crime can have far-reaching consequences. This was a great crime thriller and one of the best in the series. Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
4.5 stars rounded down.
A man, Glen Chapman, dies in a house fire that was deliberately lit. Strangely, the police also find a small candle in a glass jar sitting on the bird bath in the garden - what does it mean? Luckily his wife, Faith, and their two children were not at home as Faith had walked out a couple of days ago after having enough abuse and humiliation from her husband. A day or two later the same thing happens and another man is burnt to death in his home. Another candle in a jar is found.
The police struggle to work out what links these killings, if anything, but are certain of one thing - there are likely to be more deaths. Throw a missing child into the mix and Gina and her team are at their wits end. The longer the child is missing, the less chance he will be found alive.
Meanwhile Gina is being hounded by reporter Pete Bloxwich who is a real bottom feeder. He has been egged on to write a speculative article about Terry’s death (he fell down the stairs) claiming that Gina had a hand in it and didn’t call for an ambulance soon enough. Terry’s mother Hetty and brother Stephen are behind the article. They never believed Gina when she described how Terry used to beat her in his drunken rages. Bloxwich claims he wants to tell her side of the story but either way she thinks this will ruin her career.
This is the closest I’ve seen her come to unravelling as her personal and professional lives collide. The tension on Gina and her team was palpable but the police still don’t know what is driving this murder spree. The truth, when it is finally revealed, is chilling and again illustrates that the fallout from a violent crime can have far-reaching consequences. This was a great crime thriller and one of the best in the series. Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
4.5 stars rounded down.
November 20, 2021
This is my first novel by author Carla Kovach and probably book ten in a series is not the ideal introduction. That said it did not hinder my enjoyment of the novel and I am already looking forward to catching up on the earlier books.
A group of friends are suffering the loss of one of the husbands following a house fire started by an arsonist. Gina Harte is investigating the crime and early investigations point to a connection within the group of friends that may put others in danger.
This was well written and sure the characters will grow on me the more I read of the series. Lots of positive things in this novel to encourage me to read more of the series.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Bookouture for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
A group of friends are suffering the loss of one of the husbands following a house fire started by an arsonist. Gina Harte is investigating the crime and early investigations point to a connection within the group of friends that may put others in danger.
This was well written and sure the characters will grow on me the more I read of the series. Lots of positive things in this novel to encourage me to read more of the series.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Bookouture for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2022
Her Dying Wish is the tenth crime thriller novel in the Detective Gina Harte Series, by author Carla Kovach. Having enjoyed the previous novels in the series, I move on to book 10. The story is set in Worcestershire England.
Even though this novel worked well as a stand-alone, I would recommend other readers to read the previous books as they will be given background information on the characters in this book. A solid police procedural with engaging characters.
Trigger Warning: The book is about rape, abusive relationships, revenge, and murder.
In this book, DI Gina Harte’s professional and personal lives intercept, and she now struggles to deal with everything…a born strong survivor who is trying to keep all her secrets from coming out.
DI Gina Harte works homicides. Her team consists of: DS Jacob Driscoll, DC Harry O’Connor and DC Paula Wyre, with a lot of help from PC Smith and PC Kapoor.
Gina is harassed by journalist, Pete Bloxwich who is pursuing her over the death of her husband Terry many years ago. Terry’s mother Hetty and brother Stephen are behind the article, claiming that Gina didn’t call for an ambulance soon enough, after Terry’s fall. They never believed Gina when she described how Terry was abusive and used to beat her when he was drunk. Bloxwich says he wants to tell her side of the story but she thinks this will ruin her career. Only her boss, DCI Chris Briggs, who she is involved with on an on/off relationship, knows that she did not save him when he fell to his death many years ago.
At the same time Gina and her team are investigating a fatal arson attack.
An abusive husband, Glen Chapman dies in a house fire that was deliberately set, while his wife Faith is staying at a hotel with the kids. She had left him a few days before the fire.
Then the same thing happens to another of their friends, Cameron and Kerstin Godwill, but Kerstin woke up and scared off the attacker. The following night the attack was successful and resulted in Cameron’s death as his wife and family were safe in another location.
But when they discover a child is missing, the whole case takes another turn.
Time is running out and the longer the child is missing, the less chance he will be found alive.
The ending is bittersweet and one that I didn’t see coming. The title for the novel becomes more apparent in the final pages.
Many thank to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for my digital copy.
Even though this novel worked well as a stand-alone, I would recommend other readers to read the previous books as they will be given background information on the characters in this book. A solid police procedural with engaging characters.
Trigger Warning: The book is about rape, abusive relationships, revenge, and murder.
In this book, DI Gina Harte’s professional and personal lives intercept, and she now struggles to deal with everything…a born strong survivor who is trying to keep all her secrets from coming out.
DI Gina Harte works homicides. Her team consists of: DS Jacob Driscoll, DC Harry O’Connor and DC Paula Wyre, with a lot of help from PC Smith and PC Kapoor.
Gina is harassed by journalist, Pete Bloxwich who is pursuing her over the death of her husband Terry many years ago. Terry’s mother Hetty and brother Stephen are behind the article, claiming that Gina didn’t call for an ambulance soon enough, after Terry’s fall. They never believed Gina when she described how Terry was abusive and used to beat her when he was drunk. Bloxwich says he wants to tell her side of the story but she thinks this will ruin her career. Only her boss, DCI Chris Briggs, who she is involved with on an on/off relationship, knows that she did not save him when he fell to his death many years ago.
At the same time Gina and her team are investigating a fatal arson attack.
An abusive husband, Glen Chapman dies in a house fire that was deliberately set, while his wife Faith is staying at a hotel with the kids. She had left him a few days before the fire.
Then the same thing happens to another of their friends, Cameron and Kerstin Godwill, but Kerstin woke up and scared off the attacker. The following night the attack was successful and resulted in Cameron’s death as his wife and family were safe in another location.
But when they discover a child is missing, the whole case takes another turn.
Time is running out and the longer the child is missing, the less chance he will be found alive.
The ending is bittersweet and one that I didn’t see coming. The title for the novel becomes more apparent in the final pages.
Many thank to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for my digital copy.
December 18, 2021
3.5 stars
Her Dying Wish by Carla Kovach is the 10th in the Detective Gina Harte series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books)
DI Gina Harte works homicides. Her team consists of: DS Jacob Driscoll, DC Harry O’Connor and DC Paula Wyre, with a lot of assistance from PC Smith and PC Kapoor. Gina is a stubborn lady, and a determined detective. She has had a rough life, which has led to an uneasy relationship with her daughter and grand-daughter. It has also led to a lack of real friends, and an on-again/off-again relationship with her boss, DCI Chris Briggs. It is not common knowledge that her husband was abusive, and only Briggs knows that she did not save him when he fell to his death many years ago.
My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions)
An abusive husband goes up in flames with the house while his wife is staying at a hotel with the kids. She had left him a few days before the fire.
When another of their friends almost suffers a similar fate, Gina and the team start looking into their lives. The four women are part of a gym club, and their husbands are also friends. So, questions arise whether the fire had to do with one of them, or if this is totally unrelated.
But when they discover a child is missing, the whole case takes another turn.
Meanwhile, Gina is being hounded by a reporter who is writing the story of her husbands death, and he plans on making sure that everyone will know that Gina is to blame. She may lose her family, her job, and her freedom, if the full story comes out.
My Opinions:
Okay, as much as I like this series, I almost stopped reading at the end of the 2nd chapter, when I realized that this was yet another book about Gina's dead husband. I am sooooo sick of this storyline, which tends to take over the true mystery. I thought it was finally finished in the last book....now I hope it may be again.
As pretty as the cover is, it again has nothing to do with the book.
The book is told in different perspectives, one of which is a little boy. Although it was easy to determine the identity of the child early on, if was definitely a great segment. The other characters were just as interesting.
The overall plot was very good. The book is about rape, about abusive relationships, about hatred of women, about revenge, and of course about murder. All rather depressing and dark topics, but done really well.
The mystery parts of these books are all 4 or 5 stars, but my annoyance at the character development is starting to really annoy me. So, although I will again wait for the next in the series, I sincerely hope that it will devote more time to the actual current crime, and less to Gina's ancient history.
For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
December 15, 2021
This is an enthralling crime thriller, a read that is great
The tenth in the series with Gina Harte fearing her fate.
She's torn as her professional and personal life smash
Whilst a murder spree unfurls - will she crash?
The pressure is on, right from the start,
Making you worry about Detective Gina Harte.
This story has so much that keeps you on the edge of your seat
With a killer to stop and a journalist's threats to beat.
A great addition to a brilliant set
With the past impinging on the present and yet
There's always the search for justice, its true,
But does that always excuse what you do?
Blackmail, kidnapping, revenge and much more
Add so much to this story crime thriller fans will adore.
The motivations and actions so carefully concealed
Have you gasping when the truth is actually revealed.
This series is one that I keep looking out for
And one that I look forward to reading even more.
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed reading it and this is my honest review.
The tenth in the series with Gina Harte fearing her fate.
She's torn as her professional and personal life smash
Whilst a murder spree unfurls - will she crash?
The pressure is on, right from the start,
Making you worry about Detective Gina Harte.
This story has so much that keeps you on the edge of your seat
With a killer to stop and a journalist's threats to beat.
A great addition to a brilliant set
With the past impinging on the present and yet
There's always the search for justice, its true,
But does that always excuse what you do?
Blackmail, kidnapping, revenge and much more
Add so much to this story crime thriller fans will adore.
The motivations and actions so carefully concealed
Have you gasping when the truth is actually revealed.
This series is one that I keep looking out for
And one that I look forward to reading even more.
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed reading it and this is my honest review.
December 20, 2021
Her Dying Wish by Carla Kovach is the tenth book in the Gina Harte series. I picked up this series with The Liar's House (book 4) and I also thoroughly enjoyed books five through to nine.
The author has written a really clever and fascinating story with a layered plot that drew me in right from the very first page. In this tenth tense tale, the stakes are high and Gina needs her team more than ever. Feisty and down-to-earth, Gina is a brilliant Detective Inspector. DS Jacob Driscoll makes a valuable contribution as does DCI Chris Briggs Other team members are DC Harry O’Connor and DC Paula Wyre, along with PC Smith and PC Kapoor. The great pacing by Carla Kovach also had a hand in my huge enjoyment of the story. I suspected many of the characters though I remained bamboozled to the involved, dramatic end. If you love a good detective series and psychological thriller with plenty of twists and a very dark feel, then Her Dying Wish is for you. Very highly recommended. 😊
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
The author has written a really clever and fascinating story with a layered plot that drew me in right from the very first page. In this tenth tense tale, the stakes are high and Gina needs her team more than ever. Feisty and down-to-earth, Gina is a brilliant Detective Inspector. DS Jacob Driscoll makes a valuable contribution as does DCI Chris Briggs Other team members are DC Harry O’Connor and DC Paula Wyre, along with PC Smith and PC Kapoor. The great pacing by Carla Kovach also had a hand in my huge enjoyment of the story. I suspected many of the characters though I remained bamboozled to the involved, dramatic end. If you love a good detective series and psychological thriller with plenty of twists and a very dark feel, then Her Dying Wish is for you. Very highly recommended. 😊
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
December 18, 2021
★★★★★ 4.5 stars (rounded up)
I am excited to be taking part in the #BooksOnTour #BlogTour for Carla Kovach's latest crime thriller HER DYING WISH.
*Potential Spoiler Alert*
I love the DI Gina Harte series and with each installment I have warmed to the series and the cast of characters even more. Although in this latest fare, Gina's team have taken a little more of a backseat as the focus and spotlight shines a little too brightly on Gina herself and the secret she has kept hidden for so long. In saying that, I do recommend reading the rest of the series before embarking on this one as it will make a lot more sense in doing so. That and a few other story arcs will fall into place a little easier if you have followed Gina's journey from the start. Although having said that, I did come in on the 3rd book in the series and have yet to go back and read the first two...lol
The story opens with a Prologue set eight years ago with a tragic event that is at first puzzling as the reader tries to unravel the clues as to what has taken place and who it could be. Fast forward to the present day - 14th November - and the same first person narrative outlines a tragedy that is about to occur, as we can only surmise from the opening lines of the chapter. We are lead step by step through every phase until the main event and are left in no doubt of the outcome.
It's the early hours and DI Gina Harte has woken from a restless sleep. She had just fought off a nightmare to end all nightmares sparked by the monster of her dreams latest attempt to get her to talk about her dead ex-husband Terry. Slimy reporter Pete Bloxwich has joined forces with Terry's mother and brother in a campaign against her which sees her as a murderess in what they claim to be Terry's sudden death all those years ago (note - this is not a spoiler as it has been the common theme throughout the series).
Whilst ruminating over the latest threats from the reporter, her phone rings with a call from her DS, Jacob Driscoll, who relays that there has been a fire in which a person has been reported to have died. As she arrives on scene she is greeted with the crumbling remains of what had been a beautiful and expensive house, in one of the most affluent areas of Cleevesford. Despite the cordon, there are plenty of people standing around in nightwear and coats holding umbrellas in one hand and filming on their phones with the other whilst children peer out from behind their bedroom curtains. Gina braced herself for the scene that awaited her as soon as the firefighters cleared the place as safe. And the charred body that had been Glen Chapman, owner of the crumbling remains in which they now stood.
It soon becomes clear that accelerant was used and that it was a planned arson attack. The question is why? And was Chapman the intended victim? Or was it is his wife, who had left the house with her children some days before after a blazing row? And what was the significance of the lone candle found burning in a jar in the garden of the residence that had just been razed to the ground?
Before Gina and her team can delve further into the life of Glen Chapman and his wife Faith, there is a second attempt on the house of the Chapman's friends, Cameron and Kerstin Godwill. But Kerstin was awoken by a sound that had her investigating its source and she scared off the attacker before they could light the rag they had place in the letterbox. Gina at once suggested the family find alternative accommodation until they investigated fully and it was deemed safe to return. But the following night when they receive a call that this time the attack was successful and despite their recommendation to stay somewhere else, Cameron Godwill refused to be chased out of his home and, thinking the attacker had already tried and failed and therefore wouldn't come back, decided to remain in his home. To his peril, it seems, as he too perished in the fire.
After three days and two arson attacks, Gina and her team are no closer to finding out the reason for these attacks or the significance of fire and the candles. But things are about to get a whole lot more complicated when Gina discovers one of those in the group of friends is none other than her ex-husband's brother, Stephen. The very person who is trying to bring her down by setting the slimy reporter Pete Bloxwich on her tail. Gina knows that to continue leading this investigation would be a conflict of interest and after reporting it to her superior, DCI Chris Briggs, places Jacob as lead SIO of the case. The less she has to do with Stephen the better, not just because he is the exact same as her dead husband, but he and his mother could make life very difficult for her...as if they aren't already.
Things start to get yet even more complicated (if that's possible) with the abduction of a 4 year old boy, Erik, with the kidnapper using threats of harm to the child to force the mother to do their bidding for the entire unfolding of the plan they have orchestrated. Should they refuse or fail, the child will die.
Throughout every circumstance thrown her way, Gina manages to juggle it all with the help of her trusty team and ever supportive superior, and lover, Briggs. Will Gina be able to find the arsonist, the child and stop Bloxwich in his tracks? Or will she finally unravel under the pressure of it all as her professional and personal lives collide once and for all?
The reveal, when it comes, is bittersweet. There is sadness and heartbreak but also madness in one person's desire for revenge. The account is as chilling as it is heartbreaking and as misguided as it is understandable. Illustrating just how tragic the fallout from a violent crime can be and with such significant consequences.
HER DYING WISH is the tenth in the DI Gina Harte series and I have to say is one of the best yet. The collision of Gina's professional and personal lives was inevitable and yet it is cleverly crafted to illustrate Gina's own dilemma as she struggles to deal with everything. She has long been able to survive on her own but here her past she has tried so very hard to keep secret has come out and is about to unravel spectacularly. I have grown to like Gina, though I'm not sure I totally warmed to her in the beginning, I am definitely rooting for her now.
Surprisingly, I didn't quite guess who was orchestrating everything but I did narrow it down to a couple, of which the villain was one. I didn't even guess the motivation behind it. Carla Kovach really hoodwinked me with this one...I think because she had us all focused on Gina's personal dilemma my eyes were taken off the ball with the case at hand. In a way that the left hand doesn't see what the right hand is doing. Clever.
The title HER DYING WISH may leave readers a little puzzled throughout as it doesn't appear to bear any significance whatsoever to the events taking place but it does become clear in the final pages which leaves something of a, not quite bitter taste, but something similar...if not sadder.
As usual, I was not disappointed with this latest installment and eagerly await the next one to see where things take Gina next. I would be interested in a follow-up on Stephen, given how things ended for him in this one, and how much credibility he has left. Would Gina find his threats as empty or loaded? And how would she handle things then?
I'm not generally a fan of strong independent women who often go their own way despite the consequences. But I do love a good crime thriller and that's what this series is. I love how we are given a glimpse of all sides - the villains, the police and those who are collateral damage - and it is not all procedural. This is an entire series of good solid crime thrillers that are well worth the read. If you haven't already done so, grab them! Read them! And then you can devour this one too!
I definitely recommend this book in conjunction with the previous nine books first and it is perfect for fans for good solid crime thrillers.
I would like to thank #CarlaKovach, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #HerDyingWish in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
I am excited to be taking part in the #BooksOnTour #BlogTour for Carla Kovach's latest crime thriller HER DYING WISH.
*Potential Spoiler Alert*
I love the DI Gina Harte series and with each installment I have warmed to the series and the cast of characters even more. Although in this latest fare, Gina's team have taken a little more of a backseat as the focus and spotlight shines a little too brightly on Gina herself and the secret she has kept hidden for so long. In saying that, I do recommend reading the rest of the series before embarking on this one as it will make a lot more sense in doing so. That and a few other story arcs will fall into place a little easier if you have followed Gina's journey from the start. Although having said that, I did come in on the 3rd book in the series and have yet to go back and read the first two...lol
The story opens with a Prologue set eight years ago with a tragic event that is at first puzzling as the reader tries to unravel the clues as to what has taken place and who it could be. Fast forward to the present day - 14th November - and the same first person narrative outlines a tragedy that is about to occur, as we can only surmise from the opening lines of the chapter. We are lead step by step through every phase until the main event and are left in no doubt of the outcome.
It's the early hours and DI Gina Harte has woken from a restless sleep. She had just fought off a nightmare to end all nightmares sparked by the monster of her dreams latest attempt to get her to talk about her dead ex-husband Terry. Slimy reporter Pete Bloxwich has joined forces with Terry's mother and brother in a campaign against her which sees her as a murderess in what they claim to be Terry's sudden death all those years ago (note - this is not a spoiler as it has been the common theme throughout the series).
Whilst ruminating over the latest threats from the reporter, her phone rings with a call from her DS, Jacob Driscoll, who relays that there has been a fire in which a person has been reported to have died. As she arrives on scene she is greeted with the crumbling remains of what had been a beautiful and expensive house, in one of the most affluent areas of Cleevesford. Despite the cordon, there are plenty of people standing around in nightwear and coats holding umbrellas in one hand and filming on their phones with the other whilst children peer out from behind their bedroom curtains. Gina braced herself for the scene that awaited her as soon as the firefighters cleared the place as safe. And the charred body that had been Glen Chapman, owner of the crumbling remains in which they now stood.
It soon becomes clear that accelerant was used and that it was a planned arson attack. The question is why? And was Chapman the intended victim? Or was it is his wife, who had left the house with her children some days before after a blazing row? And what was the significance of the lone candle found burning in a jar in the garden of the residence that had just been razed to the ground?
Before Gina and her team can delve further into the life of Glen Chapman and his wife Faith, there is a second attempt on the house of the Chapman's friends, Cameron and Kerstin Godwill. But Kerstin was awoken by a sound that had her investigating its source and she scared off the attacker before they could light the rag they had place in the letterbox. Gina at once suggested the family find alternative accommodation until they investigated fully and it was deemed safe to return. But the following night when they receive a call that this time the attack was successful and despite their recommendation to stay somewhere else, Cameron Godwill refused to be chased out of his home and, thinking the attacker had already tried and failed and therefore wouldn't come back, decided to remain in his home. To his peril, it seems, as he too perished in the fire.
After three days and two arson attacks, Gina and her team are no closer to finding out the reason for these attacks or the significance of fire and the candles. But things are about to get a whole lot more complicated when Gina discovers one of those in the group of friends is none other than her ex-husband's brother, Stephen. The very person who is trying to bring her down by setting the slimy reporter Pete Bloxwich on her tail. Gina knows that to continue leading this investigation would be a conflict of interest and after reporting it to her superior, DCI Chris Briggs, places Jacob as lead SIO of the case. The less she has to do with Stephen the better, not just because he is the exact same as her dead husband, but he and his mother could make life very difficult for her...as if they aren't already.
Things start to get yet even more complicated (if that's possible) with the abduction of a 4 year old boy, Erik, with the kidnapper using threats of harm to the child to force the mother to do their bidding for the entire unfolding of the plan they have orchestrated. Should they refuse or fail, the child will die.
Throughout every circumstance thrown her way, Gina manages to juggle it all with the help of her trusty team and ever supportive superior, and lover, Briggs. Will Gina be able to find the arsonist, the child and stop Bloxwich in his tracks? Or will she finally unravel under the pressure of it all as her professional and personal lives collide once and for all?
The reveal, when it comes, is bittersweet. There is sadness and heartbreak but also madness in one person's desire for revenge. The account is as chilling as it is heartbreaking and as misguided as it is understandable. Illustrating just how tragic the fallout from a violent crime can be and with such significant consequences.
HER DYING WISH is the tenth in the DI Gina Harte series and I have to say is one of the best yet. The collision of Gina's professional and personal lives was inevitable and yet it is cleverly crafted to illustrate Gina's own dilemma as she struggles to deal with everything. She has long been able to survive on her own but here her past she has tried so very hard to keep secret has come out and is about to unravel spectacularly. I have grown to like Gina, though I'm not sure I totally warmed to her in the beginning, I am definitely rooting for her now.
Surprisingly, I didn't quite guess who was orchestrating everything but I did narrow it down to a couple, of which the villain was one. I didn't even guess the motivation behind it. Carla Kovach really hoodwinked me with this one...I think because she had us all focused on Gina's personal dilemma my eyes were taken off the ball with the case at hand. In a way that the left hand doesn't see what the right hand is doing. Clever.
The title HER DYING WISH may leave readers a little puzzled throughout as it doesn't appear to bear any significance whatsoever to the events taking place but it does become clear in the final pages which leaves something of a, not quite bitter taste, but something similar...if not sadder.
As usual, I was not disappointed with this latest installment and eagerly await the next one to see where things take Gina next. I would be interested in a follow-up on Stephen, given how things ended for him in this one, and how much credibility he has left. Would Gina find his threats as empty or loaded? And how would she handle things then?
I'm not generally a fan of strong independent women who often go their own way despite the consequences. But I do love a good crime thriller and that's what this series is. I love how we are given a glimpse of all sides - the villains, the police and those who are collateral damage - and it is not all procedural. This is an entire series of good solid crime thrillers that are well worth the read. If you haven't already done so, grab them! Read them! And then you can devour this one too!
I definitely recommend this book in conjunction with the previous nine books first and it is perfect for fans for good solid crime thrillers.
I would like to thank #CarlaKovach, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #HerDyingWish in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
November 19, 2021
Her Dying wish pub date 16th Dec 2021. Thanks Netgalley, Carla Kovach and Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for my fair and honest opinions. Book 10 of the Gina Harte series. I must admit you should read books 1 to 9 first! This is one of my favourite UK crime series.
A group of friends find themselves loosing their husbands to arson. When Gina and her team ate called yo investigate they are at a loss. Even more confusing is lit candle left outside the house. Is it religious? Personal? In memory of someone? Or just s crazy fire starter?
I really enjoyed this one espically as Gina is having to deal with a journalist who won't stop badgering her regarding her ex husbands death. She is on edge that her secret will finally come out ruining everything she loves. The case finds her previous life and present life colliding together. I enjoyed that when faced with the tough decisions we get to be part of her decision process and let's just say I would've chosen differently ha!
The case was really interesting I honestly had no idea who was the arsonist but I did guess the motivation behind it. I found the other women we followed through the investigation, how they slotted into the whole story. I still had no idea !
As usual the investigative side of the story was done really well and it was easy to follow! Gina is as per a great leading lady and I enjoy reading her again, feels like I was waiting ages for this book and it didn't let me down.
Would I recommend this book? Ofcourse I would recommend the entire dam series!! 5 stars 🌟 for this one and the 9 that proceeded this one! Gina is a great strong independent woman and a great detective. The crimes are often well thought out and full of mystery. All my questions get answered through and it was a very inventive one to say the least!
Review also published on @jazzreadsreviewsrepeats
A group of friends find themselves loosing their husbands to arson. When Gina and her team ate called yo investigate they are at a loss. Even more confusing is lit candle left outside the house. Is it religious? Personal? In memory of someone? Or just s crazy fire starter?
I really enjoyed this one espically as Gina is having to deal with a journalist who won't stop badgering her regarding her ex husbands death. She is on edge that her secret will finally come out ruining everything she loves. The case finds her previous life and present life colliding together. I enjoyed that when faced with the tough decisions we get to be part of her decision process and let's just say I would've chosen differently ha!
The case was really interesting I honestly had no idea who was the arsonist but I did guess the motivation behind it. I found the other women we followed through the investigation, how they slotted into the whole story. I still had no idea !
As usual the investigative side of the story was done really well and it was easy to follow! Gina is as per a great leading lady and I enjoy reading her again, feels like I was waiting ages for this book and it didn't let me down.
Would I recommend this book? Ofcourse I would recommend the entire dam series!! 5 stars 🌟 for this one and the 9 that proceeded this one! Gina is a great strong independent woman and a great detective. The crimes are often well thought out and full of mystery. All my questions get answered through and it was a very inventive one to say the least!
Review also published on @jazzreadsreviewsrepeats
November 9, 2021
This was just ok for me. The problem I had was there was a lot of Gina and not of her team. The conversations that happened were short and fractured. Gina’s past is catching up with her and there was a lot of focus on that. The mystery was decent but not enough to make this more than a higher rating of three. Still look forward to more in this series, but this wasn’t my favorite.
December 28, 2021
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Her Dying Wish' by Carla Kovach.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Carla Kovach, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 16th December 2021.
This is the fourth book I have read by this author. I have previously read 'Their Silent Graves' which is the seventh book in the 'Detective Gina Harte' series, 'The Broken Ones' which is the eighth book and 'One Left Behind' which is the ninth in the 'Detective Gina Harte' series. 'Her Dying Wish' is the tenth book in the 'Detective Gina Harte' series but can be read as a standalone.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'Perfect for fans of Angela Marsons, Cara Hunter and Clare Mackintosh, One Left Behind is a thrilling crime novel that will have you hooked from the very first page!.' I am a huge fan of Angela Marsons so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Carla Kovach and if this is half as good as 'The Broken Ones', 'One Left Behind' or 'Their Silent Graves' it is sure to be an epic read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue, 70 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in England 🏴 , UK 🇬🇧 . I always enjoy when books are set in the UK as I'm from Wales and have sometimes visited areas mentioned in the book. This makes it easier to picture where the scenes are set at times. I have in fact visited England on many occasions including going there on holiday last and this year so am looking forward to possibly recognising name places.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Detective Gina Harte. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything. .
'Her Dying Wish' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Carla discusses/includes domestic violence and rape.
WELL, WELL, WELL CARLA DOES IT AGAIN!!!! YET ANOTHER EXPLOSIVE PAGE TURNER BY AN EXTREMELY TALENTED AUTHOR!!
This book is another riveting installment in this gripping and addictive series. Filled with vivid descriptions it is easy to get lost in the pages for hours. The cover and synopsis work perfectly with the storyline. This book hit every possible emotion and I loved every part of it.
The storyline was unique, very fast paced and filled with suspense, tension, secrets, action and lots red herrings to throw you off the scent. I was completely shocked by who the killer turned out to be and never expected them in the slightest. I always love it when I'm shocked as there's nothing worse than working out the killer and your not even half way through the book yet. I love that several chapters are from the Killer's perspective which gives an excellent insight to how they are feeling and why they are doing what they are. This book discusses domestic abuse and rape and I am a huge believer that both of these should be discussed more often to help victims of either realise there is help available out there and they are not alone. As always Carla has done an immense amount of research and it shines throughout the book. It also leaves you questioning the law, well it did for me anyway and it also highlights what a mother would do for their child. Did I think the punishments were correct for the crimes and reasons? Personally I think not but then where do you draw the line? An extremely well written and thought provoking action packed crime thriller. The descriptions were so vivid I could feel the freezing cold water in some pages and the boiling heat during others. As always this book has left me wanting more in the Gina Harte series!!
Although this is the tenth book in the series I had absolutely no problems reading it without the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
I love Gina and the fact that she is a strong female role model who has got a history herself makes it even better. I enjoyed meeting all the previous characters along with many new ones who all had their own personalities and were strong Characters, well maybe not all!! A certain character, a few actually I could not stand but I'm extremely pleased that a particular Thorn got their comeuppance, I won't say more than that as I don't want to spoil it for others but once you've read it I'm sure you'll know who I mean. I love the dynamics in Gina's team and the fact they all work so well together. Each of her team has their own unique traits and personalities and I love meeting them in each new storyline that Carla brings out. I am looking forward to meeting them all again when I read more of the fabulous Carla's books.
If you have never read this series I highly recommend starting now. It is always great if you can start at the beginning of a series but the brilliant thing with Carla's books is that it really doesn't matter where you start as they can be read in any order.
CONGRATULATIONS CARLA ON YET ANOTHER EXPLOSIVE INSTALLMENT IN AN EPIC SERIES!!! This is exactly why you are in my top 5 crime authors list!!
Overall a page turning, psychological thriller that will leave you shocked and wanting to read more of this incredible series
Genres covered in this novel include Psychological Fiction, Crime Fiction, Thriller, Police Procedural, Mystery and Psychological Thriller amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Angela Marsons, Carol Wyer, C. L Taylor, Tess Gerritsen and anyone looking for an addictive and explosive series.
367 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#HerDyingWish #Bookouture #CarlaKovach #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@CarlaKovach @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Review for 'Her Dying Wish' by Carla Kovach.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Carla Kovach, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 16th December 2021.
This is the fourth book I have read by this author. I have previously read 'Their Silent Graves' which is the seventh book in the 'Detective Gina Harte' series, 'The Broken Ones' which is the eighth book and 'One Left Behind' which is the ninth in the 'Detective Gina Harte' series. 'Her Dying Wish' is the tenth book in the 'Detective Gina Harte' series but can be read as a standalone.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'Perfect for fans of Angela Marsons, Cara Hunter and Clare Mackintosh, One Left Behind is a thrilling crime novel that will have you hooked from the very first page!.' I am a huge fan of Angela Marsons so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Carla Kovach and if this is half as good as 'The Broken Ones', 'One Left Behind' or 'Their Silent Graves' it is sure to be an epic read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue, 70 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in England 🏴 , UK 🇬🇧 . I always enjoy when books are set in the UK as I'm from Wales and have sometimes visited areas mentioned in the book. This makes it easier to picture where the scenes are set at times. I have in fact visited England on many occasions including going there on holiday last and this year so am looking forward to possibly recognising name places.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Detective Gina Harte. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything. .
'Her Dying Wish' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Carla discusses/includes domestic violence and rape.
WELL, WELL, WELL CARLA DOES IT AGAIN!!!! YET ANOTHER EXPLOSIVE PAGE TURNER BY AN EXTREMELY TALENTED AUTHOR!!
This book is another riveting installment in this gripping and addictive series. Filled with vivid descriptions it is easy to get lost in the pages for hours. The cover and synopsis work perfectly with the storyline. This book hit every possible emotion and I loved every part of it.
The storyline was unique, very fast paced and filled with suspense, tension, secrets, action and lots red herrings to throw you off the scent. I was completely shocked by who the killer turned out to be and never expected them in the slightest. I always love it when I'm shocked as there's nothing worse than working out the killer and your not even half way through the book yet. I love that several chapters are from the Killer's perspective which gives an excellent insight to how they are feeling and why they are doing what they are. This book discusses domestic abuse and rape and I am a huge believer that both of these should be discussed more often to help victims of either realise there is help available out there and they are not alone. As always Carla has done an immense amount of research and it shines throughout the book. It also leaves you questioning the law, well it did for me anyway and it also highlights what a mother would do for their child. Did I think the punishments were correct for the crimes and reasons? Personally I think not but then where do you draw the line? An extremely well written and thought provoking action packed crime thriller. The descriptions were so vivid I could feel the freezing cold water in some pages and the boiling heat during others. As always this book has left me wanting more in the Gina Harte series!!
Although this is the tenth book in the series I had absolutely no problems reading it without the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
I love Gina and the fact that she is a strong female role model who has got a history herself makes it even better. I enjoyed meeting all the previous characters along with many new ones who all had their own personalities and were strong Characters, well maybe not all!! A certain character, a few actually I could not stand but I'm extremely pleased that a particular Thorn got their comeuppance, I won't say more than that as I don't want to spoil it for others but once you've read it I'm sure you'll know who I mean. I love the dynamics in Gina's team and the fact they all work so well together. Each of her team has their own unique traits and personalities and I love meeting them in each new storyline that Carla brings out. I am looking forward to meeting them all again when I read more of the fabulous Carla's books.
If you have never read this series I highly recommend starting now. It is always great if you can start at the beginning of a series but the brilliant thing with Carla's books is that it really doesn't matter where you start as they can be read in any order.
CONGRATULATIONS CARLA ON YET ANOTHER EXPLOSIVE INSTALLMENT IN AN EPIC SERIES!!! This is exactly why you are in my top 5 crime authors list!!
Overall a page turning, psychological thriller that will leave you shocked and wanting to read more of this incredible series
Genres covered in this novel include Psychological Fiction, Crime Fiction, Thriller, Police Procedural, Mystery and Psychological Thriller amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Angela Marsons, Carol Wyer, C. L Taylor, Tess Gerritsen and anyone looking for an addictive and explosive series.
367 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#HerDyingWish #Bookouture #CarlaKovach #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@CarlaKovach @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
November 29, 2021
I really enjoy the Gina Harte book series although I would have liked to see more of the focus on Gina's team and not just her alone as I do love the characters in these books. This is a strong story that kept me me enthralled throughout, quite a dark tale that draws you in and all you want to do is find who is the culprit. Another great book by Carla Kovach, highly recommended. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a review copy of this book.
February 6, 2023
Gina Harte is a class apart when it comes to detective series! I have loved the entire series so far and the 10th book - Her Dying Wish is no different. A difficult case with the threat of her past looming too close for comfort has Gina all tied up both professionally and personally. To go through both and come out in the end as she did would take a superhero, so that is just what she is! Gina's had a very difficult life but has come a long way from it but with every case she's ever faced, the danger/guilt of the situation she was in has always hung over her mind & head. To see that fear personified was something new in this case! The plot itself was very interesting but the subplot of Gina's husband Terry's death was kind of never fully clear. This book changed that. The way she navigates through her main case, while also handling the shadow of the old case was gripping. Since the main plot included children it made it all the more tense for me. There were quite a few characters that I felt I had to keep up with but that made it more interesting. Some parts were surprising some shocking. But every chapter was a page turner. I hope there is some respite for my favourite detective in the next books!
Thank you, NetGalley, Bookouture & Carla Kovach for this arc!
Thank you, NetGalley, Bookouture & Carla Kovach for this arc!
November 11, 2021
The D.I Gina Harte series is up there with the all time greatest crime book series ever for me.
I just love the dynamic between the characters and the relationships that come through on the page. The characterisation has been built so well through the series and continues to grown.
This case that the team face in this book is complicated, twisted and all out confusing! It's almost like 2 or 3 cases in one.
As always the team hit the ground running to try and find the perpetrator and seeing them fall into their natural roles is so satisfying.
I also loved having another glimpse into Gina's past. I love learning more about her and cannot wait to see what the rest of the series has to offer
I just love the dynamic between the characters and the relationships that come through on the page. The characterisation has been built so well through the series and continues to grown.
This case that the team face in this book is complicated, twisted and all out confusing! It's almost like 2 or 3 cases in one.
As always the team hit the ground running to try and find the perpetrator and seeing them fall into their natural roles is so satisfying.
I also loved having another glimpse into Gina's past. I love learning more about her and cannot wait to see what the rest of the series has to offer
December 12, 2021
Love, love, love this series!
This is my favourite book so far and one of my top reads this year.
Gina and the team are investigating an arson attack but it’s slightly different as the killer leaves a tea light in a jar burning at the scene.
Another attack follows pretty quickly and soon it’s clear a group of friends are being targeted.
As well as this case, Gina is fighting off a journalist who wants his pound of flesh regarding the death of her husband Terry.
Terry’s family are pushing the journalist to put pressure on Gina and she’s terrified her world is about to crumble around her.
This is a fast paced crime thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat.
A brilliant read.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
This is my favourite book so far and one of my top reads this year.
Gina and the team are investigating an arson attack but it’s slightly different as the killer leaves a tea light in a jar burning at the scene.
Another attack follows pretty quickly and soon it’s clear a group of friends are being targeted.
As well as this case, Gina is fighting off a journalist who wants his pound of flesh regarding the death of her husband Terry.
Terry’s family are pushing the journalist to put pressure on Gina and she’s terrified her world is about to crumble around her.
This is a fast paced crime thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat.
A brilliant read.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
December 17, 2021
I wish I could somehow give a split rating on this book. I really liked the murder mystery. It had a nice twist to it and even though I caught on to a lot of it pretty quickly, it still took me almost to the end to put all the pieces together. However, I debated DNFing the book because of the continuing story line with Gina's ex-husband. She catastrophizes what will happen if the story gets out. Really? She is going to lose her job and family and friends over this? No that won't happen. It probably won't even make the front page for more than one morning and only because the reporter works for a scandal page. Why is someone going to get worked up over something that was deemed an accident that long ago when the whole news cycle is about 16 minutes? I think for future installments I will wait until others have reviewed and see if this whole story line has been put out to pasture before I read anymore. Like I said, the mysteries are always interesting but I can't enjoy them with all the worrying about Terry's death.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for a copy of the book. This review is my own opinion.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for a copy of the book. This review is my own opinion.
December 17, 2021
Of course I was all about - who is dying? What is the wish? Oh the ending - worthy and inspirational.
Gina is called to a tragic housefire - a man burned to death in his own home. The perpetrator left a burning candle - what does that represent? Oh so many questions.
The killer narrates their story - abducting a small child and using dinosaurs to weave a tragic story.
Gina and her team struggle to establish a lead, meeting with a group of women who belong to the same gym, husbands who work together bringing them together.
Who is the real target?
A local journalist harasses Gina - Hetty and Stephen have filled his ear with their worries regarding Terry's death; I mean really it's been years - let the man go. Gina desperately searches for a way to appease him.
Another great addition to this series - but I'm seriously hoping Terry can finally just be dead.
Gina is called to a tragic housefire - a man burned to death in his own home. The perpetrator left a burning candle - what does that represent? Oh so many questions.
The killer narrates their story - abducting a small child and using dinosaurs to weave a tragic story.
Gina and her team struggle to establish a lead, meeting with a group of women who belong to the same gym, husbands who work together bringing them together.
Who is the real target?
A local journalist harasses Gina - Hetty and Stephen have filled his ear with their worries regarding Terry's death; I mean really it's been years - let the man go. Gina desperately searches for a way to appease him.
Another great addition to this series - but I'm seriously hoping Terry can finally just be dead.
May 15, 2024
Tot nu toe voor mij het minste boek uit de reeks. Te veel focus op de verhaallijn rond de inspecteur (dat al enkele boeken meegaat) ipv de case van het boek zelf. Jammer, want de case zelf zit enorm goed en verrassend in elkaar.
September 27, 2024
4,0 ⭐️
Recensie volgt nog...
Recensie volgt nog...
December 30, 2021
DI Gina Harte is facing a very difficult case. At the same time she is being hounded by a reporter about her tragic past. If it were in his power, the reporter would ruin her. Gina discovers that he is being driven by her former brother-in-law. As disturbing as this is to Gina, she must focus on the case at hand.
The case that needs to garner all of Gina’s attention is that of arson. A husband is dead and his wife and children were not at the scene. There is a very specific clue that alerts Gina and her team that this is something very personal. Could the wife have killed her husband? When another attack occurs a pattern starts to appear. When a conflict of interest occurs, Gina can’t help but worry about the pressure she is receiving from the journalist.
I came into this thrilling series at book three and have really gotten to feel for Gina and for the past that never seems to leave her behind all while she fully invests herself into the victims that suffer terrible crimes. As Gina pushes hard when it comes to the case at hand a young child goes missing and Gina is certain that all of the crimes are connected. Will she find the arsonist from the first murder and will she find the boy before it is too late?
Carla Kovach has written yet another compelling addition to an exciting series. Indeed, what a cleverly written book that not only revealed the disturbing past that the victims experienced but Gina’s past might be the catalyst that could cause her life and career to be completely derailed. This played into Gina’s incredible level of compassion towards the victims while she struggled to deal with conflicting emotions and decisions that she might be forced to make.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
The case that needs to garner all of Gina’s attention is that of arson. A husband is dead and his wife and children were not at the scene. There is a very specific clue that alerts Gina and her team that this is something very personal. Could the wife have killed her husband? When another attack occurs a pattern starts to appear. When a conflict of interest occurs, Gina can’t help but worry about the pressure she is receiving from the journalist.
I came into this thrilling series at book three and have really gotten to feel for Gina and for the past that never seems to leave her behind all while she fully invests herself into the victims that suffer terrible crimes. As Gina pushes hard when it comes to the case at hand a young child goes missing and Gina is certain that all of the crimes are connected. Will she find the arsonist from the first murder and will she find the boy before it is too late?
Carla Kovach has written yet another compelling addition to an exciting series. Indeed, what a cleverly written book that not only revealed the disturbing past that the victims experienced but Gina’s past might be the catalyst that could cause her life and career to be completely derailed. This played into Gina’s incredible level of compassion towards the victims while she struggled to deal with conflicting emotions and decisions that she might be forced to make.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
June 10, 2023
This latest installment in an epic crime series is the best yet. Featuring a gruesome and heart wrenching mystery you won't want to put this one down. I read it in one sitting.
December 19, 2021
A match is struck and the house goes up in flames, a candle left outside like a memorial to their victim. Detective Gina Harte is determined to catch the killer but also desperately trying to keep her own dark secret that could end her career while under pressure from a journalist that refuses to quit. After a second attack the mystery deepens, and Harte and her team are in a race against the clock before more lives are taken.
Her Dying Wish is the tenth book in the Detective Gina Harte series and it is another tense, twisty and pacy thriller from the talented Carla Kovach. Ms. Kovach knows how to pull you in with a compelling plot while keeping you guessing and on the edge of your seat as she takes you on an electrifying rollercoaster ride. And this book did that more than ever.
I’ve become very fond of Gina over the last ten books of this series and feel a personal connection to her as a survivor of an abusive marriage. I’ve been with her through her journey and the many pressures she’s faced, but she is facing her biggest challenge yet and under immense pressure as a local journalist relentlessly pursues her past and threatens to uncover her darkest secret. This ramps up the tension as the secret she’s hiding has the potential to end her career, and probably this series. I was rooting for her every step of the way and the idea of all being revealed felt as terrifying for me as it did for Gina. But did she manage to keep her secret? You’ll have to read to find out.
But there is more to this book than Gina’s secret. There is also a sick killer on the loose who is setting fire to people’s homes while they sleep inside. Their motives appear to be personal but other than that there are no real clues. Gina and her team are in a race against the clock with little to go on and the stakes get higher at each turn. I found myself reading with breathless anticipation as Gina tries to solve the case and save her own skin.
Once again Carla Kovach has delivered a compelling first-class thriller that you won’t want to put down. I highly recommend both this book and the whole series to anyone who enjoys well-written crime fiction.
Her Dying Wish is the tenth book in the Detective Gina Harte series and it is another tense, twisty and pacy thriller from the talented Carla Kovach. Ms. Kovach knows how to pull you in with a compelling plot while keeping you guessing and on the edge of your seat as she takes you on an electrifying rollercoaster ride. And this book did that more than ever.
I’ve become very fond of Gina over the last ten books of this series and feel a personal connection to her as a survivor of an abusive marriage. I’ve been with her through her journey and the many pressures she’s faced, but she is facing her biggest challenge yet and under immense pressure as a local journalist relentlessly pursues her past and threatens to uncover her darkest secret. This ramps up the tension as the secret she’s hiding has the potential to end her career, and probably this series. I was rooting for her every step of the way and the idea of all being revealed felt as terrifying for me as it did for Gina. But did she manage to keep her secret? You’ll have to read to find out.
But there is more to this book than Gina’s secret. There is also a sick killer on the loose who is setting fire to people’s homes while they sleep inside. Their motives appear to be personal but other than that there are no real clues. Gina and her team are in a race against the clock with little to go on and the stakes get higher at each turn. I found myself reading with breathless anticipation as Gina tries to solve the case and save her own skin.
Once again Carla Kovach has delivered a compelling first-class thriller that you won’t want to put down. I highly recommend both this book and the whole series to anyone who enjoys well-written crime fiction.
November 8, 2021
Her Dying Wish by Carla Kovach
I give this book 4 stars
Kerstin is wide awake,the devastating secret her husband just told her is spinning through her mind.
Her eyes focus on movement at the bottom of the garden. Someone is out there.
A small memorial candle flickers in the darkness, Kerstin knows exactly what it means. Someone is coming for her, and her family is in terrible danger…
DI Gina Harte and her team are back, this is book 10 in the series. I love her as a character,the author does such a great job of making her feel so real and familiar.Combine this with a clever and intense plot and lots of gritty police procedures and you have a sure fire winner…..crime fiction at its best!
With thanks to Netgalley,Carla Kovach and Bookouture for my chance to read and review this book.
I give this book 4 stars
Kerstin is wide awake,the devastating secret her husband just told her is spinning through her mind.
Her eyes focus on movement at the bottom of the garden. Someone is out there.
A small memorial candle flickers in the darkness, Kerstin knows exactly what it means. Someone is coming for her, and her family is in terrible danger…
DI Gina Harte and her team are back, this is book 10 in the series. I love her as a character,the author does such a great job of making her feel so real and familiar.Combine this with a clever and intense plot and lots of gritty police procedures and you have a sure fire winner…..crime fiction at its best!
With thanks to Netgalley,Carla Kovach and Bookouture for my chance to read and review this book.
December 20, 2021
This was yet another compelling read in this amazing series. Love Gina Harte, it's my go to police procedural series that stands out amongst the rest.
Even though you shouldn't you feel for the killer in this one. a motive that is understandable when the truth is revealed.
It begins with a house fire but who committed the crime? All will be revealed soon enough.
I love the way Gina dealt with the crime, my heart was in my mouth at the end. All this while dealing with a scumbag of a journalist who is determined to find the truth behind her own dark secret.
This is one of the best books in the series and will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout as the twists and turns to this compelling case are uncovered.
Highly recommended.
Even though you shouldn't you feel for the killer in this one. a motive that is understandable when the truth is revealed.
It begins with a house fire but who committed the crime? All will be revealed soon enough.
I love the way Gina dealt with the crime, my heart was in my mouth at the end. All this while dealing with a scumbag of a journalist who is determined to find the truth behind her own dark secret.
This is one of the best books in the series and will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout as the twists and turns to this compelling case are uncovered.
Highly recommended.
December 22, 2021
DI Gina Harte is on the case of arson which has resulted in the death of a local man. His family are distraught but not is all as it seems with his marriage and wife. There is also the issue with the local reporter and Gina’a ex brother in law causing a hate campaign towards her.
Carla’s books never fail to deliver and this was an extremely powerful one. I felt this is the start of a new Gina reclaiming her life years later.
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
Carla’s books never fail to deliver and this was an extremely powerful one. I felt this is the start of a new Gina reclaiming her life years later.
Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
September 14, 2024
“Carla Kovach - Jouw laatste wens”
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
She’s on fire! 🫣 Letterlijk en figuurlijk!
Wat een boek opnieuw! 😯
Leest zoooo ongelooflijk vlot!
Heeft me enkele “belangrijke” uurtjes slaap gekost en enkele dagen een giga-ochtendhumeur opgeleverd 🤣
Ik moest en zou verder lezen en ontdekken wat er allemaal achter de gebeurtenissen zat! 🤯
Leuke en minder leuke personages, maar vooral een pittig onderwerp 😓
Ik kijk uit naar meer! ❤️
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
She’s on fire! 🫣 Letterlijk en figuurlijk!
Wat een boek opnieuw! 😯
Leest zoooo ongelooflijk vlot!
Heeft me enkele “belangrijke” uurtjes slaap gekost en enkele dagen een giga-ochtendhumeur opgeleverd 🤣
Ik moest en zou verder lezen en ontdekken wat er allemaal achter de gebeurtenissen zat! 🤯
Leuke en minder leuke personages, maar vooral een pittig onderwerp 😓
Ik kijk uit naar meer! ❤️
December 6, 2021
This series is one I am late to the party. I have t read any of the previous books. The story opened slowly for me and it took me several chapters to really get interested in the suspense. The E ding was the best for me. There were several twists to the story that were a nice surprise. Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the early read.
December 24, 2021
I’ve read a few of Carla’s books now and they never fail to keep me gripped, it’s great writing and think each book just gets better and better. I can never figure out what’s going to happen next and could question every character in the book and still get it wrong, this book was like being on a rollercoaster with all the twists and turns. I did feel sorry for a few of the characters in the book but that changed as it went on. This along with Carla’s other books is well worth a read and I look forward to the next one.
December 12, 2021
This started off slow and I thought it was going to go one way and then boom it really went so off-piste. I love a book in a series where you dont have to have read the previous ones, I am sure it would have made it more rounded but I coped.
Thoroughly enjoyable and easy to read. This was a definite one session book.
I was given an advance copy by netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely my own.
Thoroughly enjoyable and easy to read. This was a definite one session book.
I was given an advance copy by netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews