Thriller and crime readers can expect to fall in love with this series. Sadly, I missed the first DI Sasha Dawson book, (The Dark Place) but it has been added to my TBR. Be ready to be blown away when you reach for this brilliantly dark crime novel. You will not be able to drag yourself away.

Mark Hill tells a complex dark crime story filled with an unusual group of characters. He keeps up a fast pace throughout the book ensuring that there is not a single dull moment. I loved this dark tale. The author’s choice of characters added a lighter touch making The Woman in the Woods a well-rounded entertaining read. I cannot wait to sink my teeth into The Bad Place.

Three years ago, a young woman disappeared from Wales. Four guys visiting Wales at the time were questioned – but Rhiannon was never found – leaving her family without any closure.

When Deano is murdered, the other three become nervous, especially when Abs notices someone watching him. When Tony is also found murdered DI Sash Dawson and her team face a difficult investigation. Will Jez or Abs be next? Can Sasha find the killer before he strikes again? While dealing with a troubled teenager and a sister who insists on starting a relationship too close to Sasha’s work-life – things are not looking promising for Sasha.

The author did a marvellous job with the dialect used in the book. Being from the other side of the world, I loved how I found myself hearing the characters as they speak. This added to the story as well as the characters making for a wonderfully enjoyable read.

There is no denying that Abs – the reality TV start – played a big part in this story. My first reaction to this guy…. “What a Plonker!” From the beginning, he simply annoyed me. His “look at me” attitude and walking around with a chip on his shoulder because he used to be famous did not impress me at all. I found myself disliking him a little bit more every time he opened his mouth. Yet, as annoying, and self-absorbed as this character was – he managed to crawl into my heart by the end of the book. Maybe it was just the dumb-guy appeal, but he turned into a great character. The author could not possibly improve on his creation of this guy.

Jez was an unassuming dark horse. I could not understand how he ended up with Bethany. They did not seem to gel – they were so different.

As for Connie – Sasha’s sister – I have no idea how Sasha puts up with her. She is a miserably selfish person who does not care about anyone but herself. I found myself sympathising with Sasha for having to put up with her. Just goes to show you cannot pick your family.

Without giving anything away, I must ask. Am I the only one who saw Angel was up to no good with her extravagant gift of a night at a hotel to her parents? This part of the story had red flags jumping up all over the place and Sasha and Kevin were oblivious! I found myself wanting to scream at them as I read this.

I found myself completely engrossed in this story, giving the characters my opinion on situations as I was reading. That proves without a doubt that I loved this book and the characters. I am looking forward to spending more time with DI Sasha Dawson and her wacky family.

Thriller and crime fanatics can expect a dark twisty tale with a touch of humour thrown in. The Woman In The Woods is a brilliantly entertaining read that is guaranteed to leave you missing out on some sleep. I loved this book and cannot wait for more!