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Damen Brook #2
The Disciple
DI Brook thought the nightmare was over- but the Reaper has left behind a horrifying legacy... A nail-shredding thriller for fans of Stuart MacBride and Thomas Harris. When an accidental drowning is found to be murder, Brook's past relationship with the victim makes him the prime suspect. A fact made worse when he receives a chilling message urging him to continue the work of the serial killer The Reaper, the deranged vigilante who had previously terrorised the UK. When a copycat murder on a Derby estate surfaces shortly afterwards, Brook is left with no alternative but to reopen the case- and to find a serial killer he knows is already dead. But as Brook delves deeper, he unearths the secrets behind a series of savage murders stretching back to 1975. Terrifyingly, it seems that The Reaper's influence has inspired a new band of willing disciples... A nail-shredding thriller for fans of Stuart MacBride and Thomas Harris.
416 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
23 people are currently reading
357 people want to read
About the author
Steven Dunne
21 books123 followers Steven left Rhodesway School in Bradford, Yorkshire in 1976 after taking A-levels. He graduated from Kent University in 1979 and, after taking a year’s Post Graduate Certificate in Education at St Mary’s College in Twickenham, he undertook a variety of jobs in London, including Public Relations Consultant, freelance Journalist and supply teacher.
He wrote occasional articles for The Guardian, The Times and The Independent while working on various writing projects including his own brief career in stand-up comedy. During this time he co-wrote a comedy pilot for Channel 4 entitled Not Enough Poodles but, unfortunately it fell at the final commissioning hurdle. He wrote the Book for the award-winning Latchmere Theatre Christmas pantomime of Hansel and Gretel in 1989.
In 1988, he began teaching English in Croydon before moving to Derby in 1996, where he began to think about writing a novel.
After being turned onto thrillers by Thomas Harris' The Silence of the Lambs, he realised that most thrillers failed to deliver their promised exitement, so in 2007, after spending two fruitless years marketing the novel to the publishing industry, Steven self-published Reaper, a thriller about a serial killer who strikes in Derby. It sold over 1500 copies in the East Midlands and in 2008, and received very encouraging reviews. Harper Collins bought the rights and The Reaper was released internationally in 2009. A sequel, The Disciple, was released in August 2010. Both books were critically acclaimed. He signed a publishing deal at Headline to release the next DI Brook thriller Deity, which will be released in June 2012.
You can also contact him on Facebook.
He wrote occasional articles for The Guardian, The Times and The Independent while working on various writing projects including his own brief career in stand-up comedy. During this time he co-wrote a comedy pilot for Channel 4 entitled Not Enough Poodles but, unfortunately it fell at the final commissioning hurdle. He wrote the Book for the award-winning Latchmere Theatre Christmas pantomime of Hansel and Gretel in 1989.
In 1988, he began teaching English in Croydon before moving to Derby in 1996, where he began to think about writing a novel.
After being turned onto thrillers by Thomas Harris' The Silence of the Lambs, he realised that most thrillers failed to deliver their promised exitement, so in 2007, after spending two fruitless years marketing the novel to the publishing industry, Steven self-published Reaper, a thriller about a serial killer who strikes in Derby. It sold over 1500 copies in the East Midlands and in 2008, and received very encouraging reviews. Harper Collins bought the rights and The Reaper was released internationally in 2009. A sequel, The Disciple, was released in August 2010. Both books were critically acclaimed. He signed a publishing deal at Headline to release the next DI Brook thriller Deity, which will be released in June 2012.
You can also contact him on Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
April 3, 2018
"The Disciple" by the excellent author Steven Dunne is the second in the DI Damen Brook series and my first foray into them. It is the anticipated sequel to "The Reaper" and although can be read as a standalone, since all background information is explained in chapter four, I imagine you'd get maximum enjoyment from reading both books in order.
The story kicks off brilliantly with a cold blooded murder, just what I like in a crime book and although has distressing subject matter regarding some of the murders, this book ticks all the boxes for me and keeps you on the edge of your seat. I loved how the story was set in two parts, the present here in England and the past in the USA. How they came together at the end was just brilliant, twists and turns you really couldn't see coming at all, keeping you on your toes throughout!!
DI Damen Brook is a bit of an enigma being a maverick cop and I really liked him, engaging with him straight away. The author has an excellent way of describing everything in great detail that makes you feel you have a connection to the story and at times it was so scary and tense it really did make me feel that I was actually there right in the middle of the murders. Scary! This is one of the most enjoyable serial killer crime books I have read in quite a while, intelligent and well thought out plot, tense and scary moments, solid characters and an addictive storyline that keeps you flipping the pages in dreaded anticipation.
I will definitely be looking to buy more books in this impressive series. "The Disciple" has certainly piqued my interest in following DI Brook further and I have no hesitation in recommending this book or it's very talented author to crime readers of all ages.
5 stars
The story kicks off brilliantly with a cold blooded murder, just what I like in a crime book and although has distressing subject matter regarding some of the murders, this book ticks all the boxes for me and keeps you on the edge of your seat. I loved how the story was set in two parts, the present here in England and the past in the USA. How they came together at the end was just brilliant, twists and turns you really couldn't see coming at all, keeping you on your toes throughout!!
DI Damen Brook is a bit of an enigma being a maverick cop and I really liked him, engaging with him straight away. The author has an excellent way of describing everything in great detail that makes you feel you have a connection to the story and at times it was so scary and tense it really did make me feel that I was actually there right in the middle of the murders. Scary! This is one of the most enjoyable serial killer crime books I have read in quite a while, intelligent and well thought out plot, tense and scary moments, solid characters and an addictive storyline that keeps you flipping the pages in dreaded anticipation.
I will definitely be looking to buy more books in this impressive series. "The Disciple" has certainly piqued my interest in following DI Brook further and I have no hesitation in recommending this book or it's very talented author to crime readers of all ages.
5 stars
October 24, 2025
Having loved The Reaper, I knew I was in for a treat with this, and I was!
This was a really good follow up to the brilliant start to the series and there is something about the Reaper and his thought process that I really like (in a non-serial killer kind of way) so as far as criminals go, I like this one! I also like DI Brook.
Great series that I will continue!
Four stars.
This was a really good follow up to the brilliant start to the series and there is something about the Reaper and his thought process that I really like (in a non-serial killer kind of way) so as far as criminals go, I like this one! I also like DI Brook.
Great series that I will continue!
Four stars.
April 24, 2015
I read Steven's first book a few months ago and thought it was great and then carried on trying to catch up with my ever expanding TBR list. After a gentle and subtle prompt for Mr Dunne I started The Disciple book 2 a few days ago. This is IMHO absolutely brilliant with an edge of your seat gripping storyline that just got better and better. Well done Sir Steven and I will definitely read the next book very very soon.
July 25, 2016
I would like to thank the author for allowing me to read such a riveting book and all the other readers who've said he's 1 to watch.
It took me a while as I am in the middle of moving house, but I grabbed it with both hands when I got the chance. I thought I knew who the killer was as it was obvious as you read the book. It took some good twists and turns, seeing how the story was moving along. It picked up from where The Reaper had finished and added some new characters into the mix. Some parts I never saw coming (like for instance the real cuplrit). Makes you think when you read Steven Dunne's books that not everything you see is what's really happening.
Looking forward to reading the rest of the series over the coming months. Well done to Mr Dunne.
It took me a while as I am in the middle of moving house, but I grabbed it with both hands when I got the chance. I thought I knew who the killer was as it was obvious as you read the book. It took some good twists and turns, seeing how the story was moving along. It picked up from where The Reaper had finished and added some new characters into the mix. Some parts I never saw coming (like for instance the real cuplrit). Makes you think when you read Steven Dunne's books that not everything you see is what's really happening.
Looking forward to reading the rest of the series over the coming months. Well done to Mr Dunne.
February 28, 2014
Part 2 of The Reaper series, The Disciple sees the return of Detective Inspector Brook with all his quirkiness still intact. Having witnessed the death of serial killer, The Reaper, he is then shocked to discover some cases which carry the signature of the dead killer. How can this be? Is it a copy cat or something more sinister? Why is DI Brook under suspicion in the drowning of a man who lives miles away? Why has an ex FBI agent moved next door? These are questions which the DI needs to find answers to quickly, before there are more murders.
I was a huge fan of the first Steven Dunne novel, The Reaper and still rave about it on Twitter and Facebook as well as to any crime fiction lovers I encounter. This was obviously going to be a hard act to follow and I delayed reading the second installment for a while.
This book has two stories; one is DI Brooks' workload and the other from the past, in USA. What is the link? You will have to read it to find out.......
I love Steven's writing, it's not too fast paced, has nicely structured chapters and great characters. The only problem I had with this book was that there were so many characters that I was losing track and had to keep flicking back to see who was who. The flashback sections were great and I loved the introduction of FBI agent Mike Drexler. The gruesome stories from the past have a relevance to DI Brooks and his past dealings with The Reaper, which means you should really read The Reaper before this novel. As both books are great value on Amazon, this makes it like a 2 for 1 offer !
Steven Dunne is an author to be reckoned with in the world of Crime Fiction. A refreshing change from all the Go-To authors who dominate bookshelves around the world. Give this English author a chance. I think you will be glad you did.
I was a huge fan of the first Steven Dunne novel, The Reaper and still rave about it on Twitter and Facebook as well as to any crime fiction lovers I encounter. This was obviously going to be a hard act to follow and I delayed reading the second installment for a while.
This book has two stories; one is DI Brooks' workload and the other from the past, in USA. What is the link? You will have to read it to find out.......
I love Steven's writing, it's not too fast paced, has nicely structured chapters and great characters. The only problem I had with this book was that there were so many characters that I was losing track and had to keep flicking back to see who was who. The flashback sections were great and I loved the introduction of FBI agent Mike Drexler. The gruesome stories from the past have a relevance to DI Brooks and his past dealings with The Reaper, which means you should really read The Reaper before this novel. As both books are great value on Amazon, this makes it like a 2 for 1 offer !
Steven Dunne is an author to be reckoned with in the world of Crime Fiction. A refreshing change from all the Go-To authors who dominate bookshelves around the world. Give this English author a chance. I think you will be glad you did.
October 7, 2014
A good solid read from the pen of Steven Dunne. The second instalment following on from The Reaper. It continues on with another multiple murder case in the Drayfin estate that has everyone baffled. Including of course main protagonist Damen Brook, a whisky loving, deep thinking cop that doesn't always do everything by the book, but gets the job done, somehow!
I first started reading this some months ago and left it a third of the way through. Was probably too soon after the first book and not in the right mindset. But picked it back up yesterday and was finished a day later. I found I just couldn't put it down once I got going again, it reads well with an array of characters that are interesting and believable. The book twists and turns and a few times I felt 'I've got this' only to then think 'oh, maybe I haven't.' I did in the end, well partly, and came away feeling satisfied and worn out from spinning myself round and round! It became a heady race to the finish!
This for me is even better than The Reaper so Mr Dunne is on the right trajectory here.
One I definitely recommend.
I first started reading this some months ago and left it a third of the way through. Was probably too soon after the first book and not in the right mindset. But picked it back up yesterday and was finished a day later. I found I just couldn't put it down once I got going again, it reads well with an array of characters that are interesting and believable. The book twists and turns and a few times I felt 'I've got this' only to then think 'oh, maybe I haven't.' I did in the end, well partly, and came away feeling satisfied and worn out from spinning myself round and round! It became a heady race to the finish!
This for me is even better than The Reaper so Mr Dunne is on the right trajectory here.
One I definitely recommend.
August 13, 2020
Another excellent read. Involved and complicated; based on a simple premise but told with many a twist and turn.
Captures a sense of place familiar to those of us who reside in the East Midlands. Best if you read the first book before this one - The reaper. Can't wait for the next instalment........
Captures a sense of place familiar to those of us who reside in the East Midlands. Best if you read the first book before this one - The reaper. Can't wait for the next instalment........
February 26, 2015
what can i say, i thought the first in the series was good but this book was brilliant. if i could give it more than 5 stars i would do. the beginning of the book was genius and had me hooked straight from the start. my only advice to any readers is to please read the first one before reading this as you will appreciate this book so much more. looking forward to reading the third in the series.
June 3, 2015
This book picks up where 'The Reaper' left off.
Initially the book is set in two different time zones and on two different continents and the reasons for that become clear as the story goes on.
Without giving too much away the step-father of Terri Brook (who is DI Damen Brook's daughter) is found dead following a drowning which is later judged to be murder. DI Brook emerges as a suspect for this murder as he had threatened the step-father after finding out that he (the step-father) had been having a relationship with Brook's daughter, who was underage. Two detectives arrive in Derby to question DI Brook. There also happens to be something which links this killing to the Reaper killings in Book 1 (The Reaper).
At the same time a copycat of the Reaper killings occurs in Derby and DI Brook has to reopen the case to chase a serial killer, who he knows is already dead.
This book was full of twists and turns. I thought that I had worked out who the main protagonist was but then I was wrong footed as it turned out to be somebody else entirely. At times reading this book was like being on a rollercoaster ride.
DI Damen Brook is a damaged man, who freely admits to his own mistakes and failings. He doesn't hide his mental health problems which is refreshing although many of his colleagues have a problem with it and never fail to remind him. He takes it on the chin but you can tell that he has a plan in mind to deal with his critics. Some of Brook's methods may be a bit suspect but the end results speak for themselves. DI Brook does not let anything or anybody get in the way of his pursuit of the truth. A character trait that I love about Brook is his ability to psychologically analyse anything be it a crime, a situation or somebody's behaviour.
I also loved the budding friendship that DI Brook develops with DS Noble. I also love the relationship that Brook develops with Brian Burton who is the chief crime reporter for the local newspaper. Theirs is truly a love/ hate relationship as they love to hate each other.
Once again Steven Dunne has struck gold as this book is a real page turner. The descriptions he uses in the book are so vivid that I can actually imagine I was there as an invisible onlooker.
Once again I don't know why Steven Dunne is not more widely acknowledged, praised and popular within the literary world as this series of books is fantastic. The DI Damen Brook series of books, is a television series waiting to be made.
Initially the book is set in two different time zones and on two different continents and the reasons for that become clear as the story goes on.
Without giving too much away the step-father of Terri Brook (who is DI Damen Brook's daughter) is found dead following a drowning which is later judged to be murder. DI Brook emerges as a suspect for this murder as he had threatened the step-father after finding out that he (the step-father) had been having a relationship with Brook's daughter, who was underage. Two detectives arrive in Derby to question DI Brook. There also happens to be something which links this killing to the Reaper killings in Book 1 (The Reaper).
At the same time a copycat of the Reaper killings occurs in Derby and DI Brook has to reopen the case to chase a serial killer, who he knows is already dead.
This book was full of twists and turns. I thought that I had worked out who the main protagonist was but then I was wrong footed as it turned out to be somebody else entirely. At times reading this book was like being on a rollercoaster ride.
DI Damen Brook is a damaged man, who freely admits to his own mistakes and failings. He doesn't hide his mental health problems which is refreshing although many of his colleagues have a problem with it and never fail to remind him. He takes it on the chin but you can tell that he has a plan in mind to deal with his critics. Some of Brook's methods may be a bit suspect but the end results speak for themselves. DI Brook does not let anything or anybody get in the way of his pursuit of the truth. A character trait that I love about Brook is his ability to psychologically analyse anything be it a crime, a situation or somebody's behaviour.
I also loved the budding friendship that DI Brook develops with DS Noble. I also love the relationship that Brook develops with Brian Burton who is the chief crime reporter for the local newspaper. Theirs is truly a love/ hate relationship as they love to hate each other.
Once again Steven Dunne has struck gold as this book is a real page turner. The descriptions he uses in the book are so vivid that I can actually imagine I was there as an invisible onlooker.
Once again I don't know why Steven Dunne is not more widely acknowledged, praised and popular within the literary world as this series of books is fantastic. The DI Damen Brook series of books, is a television series waiting to be made.
April 11, 2015
Brilliant follow up to The Reaper.
I really enjoyed The Disciple, follow up to The Reaper. I really like the way Damen Brook works, that he is elusive but can work well with his colleagues if respected by them. Great conclusion to the mysterious Reaper.
I really enjoyed The Disciple, follow up to The Reaper. I really like the way Damen Brook works, that he is elusive but can work well with his colleagues if respected by them. Great conclusion to the mysterious Reaper.
November 28, 2019
This book is a pile of trash.
All the back and forth and changing places and murders, characters and locations. 20 years back and forth between USA and GB. And this for 13 long hours audiobook.
WHO THE HELL WANTS THAT?
Too tiring for me. I like it when the main character is the center of a story from where the action is taking place. Steven Dunne likes it the opposite, obviously. He likes it to confuse the reader and to send him on the voyage of the damned. All is deliberate confusion. AWFUL! An insult. And the Damen Brook character is an undefined shadow, with some sort of damage in the head. One does not find out, what guy he really is. It is like he is acting from the far, not reaching the reader somehow.
And sorry, this is a writing style I do not like at all, when the main character only comes to view at the half of the book. And then he is only a character like every other in the book, all the time going back in the past and remembering. Plus a bitching DS who knows everything better than Brook and thinks he is the Reaper himself. She attacks him openly in front of all collegues and senior Inspectors, and and he takes it without any reaction. Finds her even very smart. It's ridiculous! He is a god damned Inspector, and this bitch thinks she is the shit! Picking on him, probing, nagging, accusing, judging. Later on she revises her nasty opinion about him, and he is glad and likes her too ... Jeeze, this is too much crap!
Oh, go away with that kind of book. I can spoil my freetime with something else. Thanks for the irritation. (The more I am upset, the worse my English gets. Sorry for that).
All the back and forth and changing places and murders, characters and locations. 20 years back and forth between USA and GB. And this for 13 long hours audiobook.
WHO THE HELL WANTS THAT?
Too tiring for me. I like it when the main character is the center of a story from where the action is taking place. Steven Dunne likes it the opposite, obviously. He likes it to confuse the reader and to send him on the voyage of the damned. All is deliberate confusion. AWFUL! An insult. And the Damen Brook character is an undefined shadow, with some sort of damage in the head. One does not find out, what guy he really is. It is like he is acting from the far, not reaching the reader somehow.
And sorry, this is a writing style I do not like at all, when the main character only comes to view at the half of the book. And then he is only a character like every other in the book, all the time going back in the past and remembering. Plus a bitching DS who knows everything better than Brook and thinks he is the Reaper himself. She attacks him openly in front of all collegues and senior Inspectors, and and he takes it without any reaction. Finds her even very smart. It's ridiculous! He is a god damned Inspector, and this bitch thinks she is the shit! Picking on him, probing, nagging, accusing, judging. Later on she revises her nasty opinion about him, and he is glad and likes her too ... Jeeze, this is too much crap!
Oh, go away with that kind of book. I can spoil my freetime with something else. Thanks for the irritation. (The more I am upset, the worse my English gets. Sorry for that).
May 20, 2023
On the first page "He hitched his jogging bottoms higher and retied the strings. He smiled as he rearranged his genitalia, feeling the tacky moisture of recent sex along his groin". I thought uh-oh...what did I pick up? a porn book? Well, not much graphic sex, but a lot of kill porn. every murder event got replayed again and again. Yeah, I get it. Once an incident was enough to know what happened, so I skipped most of the re-telling. The story jumped to several different points of view and by the time I figured out who was talking, it had changed to someone else. Also jumped from present day England to twenty years ago California. For this, however the CA parts were in boldface so at least you knew where you were, because many of the characters were in both places. So many red herrings it got old. And by the way...in the '40s and '50s, when women were still mostly in the home, a female assassin was jaw-dropping. Now, almost every story I read has a SURPRISE!! a killer who is female. And people wonder why there are so many violent women these days. They read or watch movies and say "wow! It must be alright for me to do those things... guess I'll go kill my ex; or that person who dissed me.
And finally, the plot. You could think wow, get rid of a lot of bad people--but whole innocent families because of one psycho? Sorry; I disagree.
And finally, the plot. You could think wow, get rid of a lot of bad people--but whole innocent families because of one psycho? Sorry; I disagree.
December 20, 2017
So I finally came around to read the successor of The Reaper: The Disciple. Yes, it is DI Damen Brook again who cannot let go off the reaper. And while he is quite sure the reaper is dead, incidents happening in Derby and at his doughter’s place not only bind him as suspect to a scene, but makes him restart the investigation on the culprit.
The novel provides two main strands intelligently intervowen. Besides the investigation by Brook, we learn about the reaper’s past activities in the U.S.A. that result in nursing his disciple. Who that is will be revealed in the final chapters of the novel, and I must admit that I did not get it right. Which is always a good sign to me. Most of the time I was quite as puzzled as DI Brook.
In my view, this is a great follow up book. It’s pace might not be as fast as The Reaper, instead it presented a twist and some riddles keeping me thrilled throughout the story. The highlights, of course, are the characters and their interactions. They all felt real, their actions plausible, which in the end resulted in a satisfying reading experience. Very much recommended, and, surely, one day I will find the time to read on about this witful DI.
The novel provides two main strands intelligently intervowen. Besides the investigation by Brook, we learn about the reaper’s past activities in the U.S.A. that result in nursing his disciple. Who that is will be revealed in the final chapters of the novel, and I must admit that I did not get it right. Which is always a good sign to me. Most of the time I was quite as puzzled as DI Brook.
In my view, this is a great follow up book. It’s pace might not be as fast as The Reaper, instead it presented a twist and some riddles keeping me thrilled throughout the story. The highlights, of course, are the characters and their interactions. They all felt real, their actions plausible, which in the end resulted in a satisfying reading experience. Very much recommended, and, surely, one day I will find the time to read on about this witful DI.
October 6, 2023
This guy is a writer savant with amazing word skills, pure plot line magic and a knack for research and realism. I hope Steven DUNNE keeps it up.
Intricate plots, coherent past present weaves that meet up seamlessly.
Characters with a personality entirely their own. Flaws and skills included. You can imagine meeting Damen, who is quirky, tries to fit in, yet doesn’t care if he doesn’t. You can see him grow and learn while you do. I love the writers style, in which he will let you discover everything with the character, but sometimes keeps the reader in the dark, while indicating the character has figured it out. Slyly moving us in position for a development or ah moment.
Linguistic pride, knowledge of global politics, insightful investigative skills with current police knowledge, makes this an incredible read. Kept me on my toes the whole time. I couldn’t even figure out where Damen stood and everyone is a suspect.
There is also quite a bit of psychological knowledge entwined in this storyline, keeping you involved with feelings and all.
Intricate plots, coherent past present weaves that meet up seamlessly.
Characters with a personality entirely their own. Flaws and skills included. You can imagine meeting Damen, who is quirky, tries to fit in, yet doesn’t care if he doesn’t. You can see him grow and learn while you do. I love the writers style, in which he will let you discover everything with the character, but sometimes keeps the reader in the dark, while indicating the character has figured it out. Slyly moving us in position for a development or ah moment.
Linguistic pride, knowledge of global politics, insightful investigative skills with current police knowledge, makes this an incredible read. Kept me on my toes the whole time. I couldn’t even figure out where Damen stood and everyone is a suspect.
There is also quite a bit of psychological knowledge entwined in this storyline, keeping you involved with feelings and all.
September 5, 2023
I actually grabbed this book at a Lifeline book festival for second hand books and I had never heard of the book or the author. I didn’t even realise it was a SECOND book in a series hence my confusion in the first few chapters but throughout the book it eventually explained anything so I was able to enjoy it without being too confused.
I LOVED IT! My first psychological thriller book and I was on edge the entire time. It was frightening at times reading it (in a good way) and I didn’t expect the plot twist at all… all in all 5/5 stars. Couldn’t fault it really! :)
***** it does have sexual violence in it but thankfully does not go into great detail. Which is another reason for 5/5 stars because it is NOT necessary to go into detail with that kind of stuff. We as an audience can understand quite easily so I thought it was very tasteful of Steve Dunne :)
I LOVED IT! My first psychological thriller book and I was on edge the entire time. It was frightening at times reading it (in a good way) and I didn’t expect the plot twist at all… all in all 5/5 stars. Couldn’t fault it really! :)
***** it does have sexual violence in it but thankfully does not go into great detail. Which is another reason for 5/5 stars because it is NOT necessary to go into detail with that kind of stuff. We as an audience can understand quite easily so I thought it was very tasteful of Steve Dunne :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2019
A very worthy followup to The Reaper. I like the fact that the 'villain' isn't entirely bad and to some extent the reader can even sympathise with the titular villain. I like protagonists who have human flaws and are conflicted. Damen Brook is one such character. I felt the first book gave more insight into his psyche than this one. The end seems to be a hook for the next in the Reaper series. I hope it will be as interesting as the first 2 books.
The plot is complex, the writing is excellent, the characters are three-dimensional and the pacing is very good - what is not there to love?
The plot is complex, the writing is excellent, the characters are three-dimensional and the pacing is very good - what is not there to love?
March 18, 2021
3.5🌟🌟🌟
I’m not the biggest fan of this series, I’m mainly continuing it because I feel like I should finish it.
HOWEVER, this book did start off extremely slow and it seemed to drag and drag BUT I did think that it became very exciting towards the last 3/4. There were some twists in there I did not expect and I found I was hooked by the end!
I’m not the biggest fan of this series, I’m mainly continuing it because I feel like I should finish it.
HOWEVER, this book did start off extremely slow and it seemed to drag and drag BUT I did think that it became very exciting towards the last 3/4. There were some twists in there I did not expect and I found I was hooked by the end!
July 1, 2017
Another excellent book by Steven Dunne, I loved his first Damen Brook novel so was looking forward to the next one and I wasn't disappointed. I would recommend this book to friends and family
October 21, 2017
The sequel to The Reaper and just as good, looking forward to reading the next in the series.
March 7, 2019
Good book
August 8, 2019
it took me a while, it's a very thrilling and has a perfect ending that just blends in the whole story so well, un like when Netflix decides to make a movie
March 23, 2020
Good read
March 1, 2017
Excellent follow up to the Reaper. Another page turner.
September 17, 2012
The Reaper's Dead, Long Live The Reaper
I couldn't have asked for a better sequel to The Reaper. Brilliantly written.
It has all the ingredients of a masterful suspense.
The book follows the events in Derbyshire post Victor Sorenson's aka "The Reaper"'s death.
Killings are occurring in Derbyshire again, following the same MO as the original reaper and it doesn't take long for DI Damen Brook to realize The Reaper has left behind his legacy in the form of a disciple(s).
Though the book is a sequel, it does not mention Damen Brook's girlfriend Wendy Jones. Mentioning her would have brought some sense of closure to her character.
This is a "Keeps you on the edge of your seat" book. I was constantly trying to guess the killer as I was trying to turn the pages of the book. But the final revelation is no one I could ever imagine. One of the main reasons people should actually pick this book. There is not much character development in this book unlike its predecessor. Another important factor to note is that Dunne manages to keep the suspense up in both the present and in 1975 which are racing towards each other, ultimately joining together to form a nail biting conclusion.
As we reach the conclusion, we really start to question the Reaper's actions post Sorenson's death, given that he considered himself to be the savior of mankind and somewhat above the law but was only seen as a deranged vigilante.
Just as we move towards the end of the novel, the final sentence of the book will send shiver's down anybody's spine making you want to read the rest in the Reaper series almost immediately.
I couldn't have asked for a better sequel to The Reaper. Brilliantly written.
It has all the ingredients of a masterful suspense.
The book follows the events in Derbyshire post Victor Sorenson's aka "The Reaper"'s death.
Killings are occurring in Derbyshire again, following the same MO as the original reaper and it doesn't take long for DI Damen Brook to realize The Reaper has left behind his legacy in the form of a disciple(s).
Though the book is a sequel, it does not mention Damen Brook's girlfriend Wendy Jones. Mentioning her would have brought some sense of closure to her character.
This is a "Keeps you on the edge of your seat" book. I was constantly trying to guess the killer as I was trying to turn the pages of the book. But the final revelation is no one I could ever imagine. One of the main reasons people should actually pick this book. There is not much character development in this book unlike its predecessor. Another important factor to note is that Dunne manages to keep the suspense up in both the present and in 1975 which are racing towards each other, ultimately joining together to form a nail biting conclusion.
As we reach the conclusion, we really start to question the Reaper's actions post Sorenson's death, given that he considered himself to be the savior of mankind and somewhat above the law but was only seen as a deranged vigilante.
Just as we move towards the end of the novel, the final sentence of the book will send shiver's down anybody's spine making you want to read the rest in the Reaper series almost immediately.
July 11, 2011
The The Disciple blurb: DI Brook thought the nightmare was over- but the Reaper has left behind a horrifying legacy
When an accidental drowning is found to be murder, Brook s past relationship with the victim makes him the prime suspect. A fact made worse when he receives a chilling message urging him to continue the work of the serial killer The Reaper, the deranged vigilante who had previously terrorised the UK.
When a copycat murder on a Derby estate surfaces shortly afterwards, Brook is left with no alternative but to reopen the case- and to find a serial killer he knows is already dead.
But as Brook delves deeper, he unearths the secrets behind a series of savage murders stretching back to 1975. Terrifyingly, it seems that The Reaper s influence has inspired a new band of willing disciples.
This is a very enjoyable sequel to The Reaper. The book is very well-written and the plot has plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing. For the most part I think The Disciple works as a stand-alone story but there are references to The Reaper. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
When an accidental drowning is found to be murder, Brook s past relationship with the victim makes him the prime suspect. A fact made worse when he receives a chilling message urging him to continue the work of the serial killer The Reaper, the deranged vigilante who had previously terrorised the UK.
When a copycat murder on a Derby estate surfaces shortly afterwards, Brook is left with no alternative but to reopen the case- and to find a serial killer he knows is already dead.
But as Brook delves deeper, he unearths the secrets behind a series of savage murders stretching back to 1975. Terrifyingly, it seems that The Reaper s influence has inspired a new band of willing disciples.
This is a very enjoyable sequel to The Reaper. The book is very well-written and the plot has plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing. For the most part I think The Disciple works as a stand-alone story but there are references to The Reaper. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
September 4, 2020
Finally reread en route to The Resurrection. One of three books by the author I’ve reread trying to do this - two by mistake!
If anything, I’ve enjoyed this one more second time round. Pity there isn’t a plus sign I could add to the ratings. I still believe the chapter structure could be better but this time have more understanding of why and when the locus in who changes on a spin.... I do think this works better on screen than in print but get it this time.
The greatest compliment I can pay to an author is to reread their work. The only higher compliment is to say that this has become a series that will join a short list of books to be read every few years. My initial public praise stands: Mr Dunne, you are an author of note! Thank you.
06/02/2015
Another superb book from Steven Dunne. The urban legend continues to grow and the author has cleverly laid down the foundations for it to run a long time. Unlike the first book, this time there are personal motives and yet it is hard to resist an empathy for the protagonist. The story within the story is equally engaging and yet again, I was kept guessing to the end. A craftsman of the genre, one doesn't have to be a fortune teller to predict a long and successful future for Mr Dunne! I look forward to the next book/s but will pace my enjoyment so it can last until the new book is published.
If anything, I’ve enjoyed this one more second time round. Pity there isn’t a plus sign I could add to the ratings. I still believe the chapter structure could be better but this time have more understanding of why and when the locus in who changes on a spin.... I do think this works better on screen than in print but get it this time.
The greatest compliment I can pay to an author is to reread their work. The only higher compliment is to say that this has become a series that will join a short list of books to be read every few years. My initial public praise stands: Mr Dunne, you are an author of note! Thank you.
06/02/2015
Another superb book from Steven Dunne. The urban legend continues to grow and the author has cleverly laid down the foundations for it to run a long time. Unlike the first book, this time there are personal motives and yet it is hard to resist an empathy for the protagonist. The story within the story is equally engaging and yet again, I was kept guessing to the end. A craftsman of the genre, one doesn't have to be a fortune teller to predict a long and successful future for Mr Dunne! I look forward to the next book/s but will pace my enjoyment so it can last until the new book is published.
October 21, 2015
DI Brook thought the nightmare was over- but the Reaper has left behind a horrifying legacy…
A nail-shredding thriller for fans of Stuart MacBride and Thomas Harris.
When an accidental drowning is found to be murder, Brook’s past relationship with the victim makes him the prime suspect. A fact made worse when he receives a chilling message urging him to continue the work of the serial killer The Reaper, the deranged vigilante who had previously terrorised the UK.
When a copycat murder on a Derby estate surfaces shortly afterwards, Brook is left with no alternative but to reopen the case- and to find a serial killer he knows is already dead.
But as Brook delves deeper, he unearths the secrets behind a series of savage murders stretching back to 1975. Terrifyingly, it seems that The Reaper’s influence has inspired a new band of willing disciples…
Excellent follow up to The Reaper; well written, with characters that you actually believe in plus two compelling interwoven stories keep the reader turning the pages deep into the night.
A nail-shredding thriller for fans of Stuart MacBride and Thomas Harris.
When an accidental drowning is found to be murder, Brook’s past relationship with the victim makes him the prime suspect. A fact made worse when he receives a chilling message urging him to continue the work of the serial killer The Reaper, the deranged vigilante who had previously terrorised the UK.
When a copycat murder on a Derby estate surfaces shortly afterwards, Brook is left with no alternative but to reopen the case- and to find a serial killer he knows is already dead.
But as Brook delves deeper, he unearths the secrets behind a series of savage murders stretching back to 1975. Terrifyingly, it seems that The Reaper’s influence has inspired a new band of willing disciples…
Excellent follow up to The Reaper; well written, with characters that you actually believe in plus two compelling interwoven stories keep the reader turning the pages deep into the night.
August 10, 2015
Another great book in the series that features Damon Brook and John Noble. I would advice reading The Reaper before reading this second book, whilst some books in a series could be read as standalones, the books are very closely linked.
There are two stories in this novel. One which follows a case in America where a pair of serial killers are themselves killed. The other is again set in Derby and to a lesser degree in Brighton. Two detectives from Brighton travel up to Derby to interview Brook who is a suspect in a murder there. They then become involved in a new murder investigation where the main suspect is a man who is himself dead.
I really enjoyed this second book. Brook's people skills haven't improved and he manages to alienate most who he deals with.
I did prefer the part of the novel that took place in Derby, mainly I think due to the relationship between Brook and Noble. Very gruesome and with a jaw dropping cliffhanger I will be reading the third book Deity very soon.
There are two stories in this novel. One which follows a case in America where a pair of serial killers are themselves killed. The other is again set in Derby and to a lesser degree in Brighton. Two detectives from Brighton travel up to Derby to interview Brook who is a suspect in a murder there. They then become involved in a new murder investigation where the main suspect is a man who is himself dead.
I really enjoyed this second book. Brook's people skills haven't improved and he manages to alienate most who he deals with.
I did prefer the part of the novel that took place in Derby, mainly I think due to the relationship between Brook and Noble. Very gruesome and with a jaw dropping cliffhanger I will be reading the third book Deity very soon.
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April 19, 2011DI Brook thought the nightmare was over- but the Reaper has left behind a horrifying legacy…
When an accidental drowning is found to be murder, Brook’s past relationship with the victim makes him the prime suspect. A fact made worse when he receives a chilling message urging him to continue the work of the serial killer The Reaper, the deranged vigilante who had previously terrorised the UK.
When a copycat murder on a Derby estate surfaces shortly afterwards, Brook is left with no alternative but to reopen the case- and to find a serial killer he knows is already dead.
But as Brook delves deeper, he unearths the secrets behind a series of savage murders stretching back to 1975. Terrifyingly, it seems that The Reaper’s influence has inspired a new band of willing disciples…
A nail-shredding thriller for fans of Stuart MacBride and Thomas Harris.
When an accidental drowning is found to be murder, Brook’s past relationship with the victim makes him the prime suspect. A fact made worse when he receives a chilling message urging him to continue the work of the serial killer The Reaper, the deranged vigilante who had previously terrorised the UK.
When a copycat murder on a Derby estate surfaces shortly afterwards, Brook is left with no alternative but to reopen the case- and to find a serial killer he knows is already dead.
But as Brook delves deeper, he unearths the secrets behind a series of savage murders stretching back to 1975. Terrifyingly, it seems that The Reaper’s influence has inspired a new band of willing disciples…
A nail-shredding thriller for fans of Stuart MacBride and Thomas Harris.
June 3, 2015
Having read and liked the first book in this series, The Reaper, I found this second book a bit of a let down. It started well with a suspicious death in Brighton but then moved to Derbyshire and the original death was hardly mentioned. A rather convoluted plot then develops where the author uses the split-time technique: the current storyline and a parallel one from the past. This serves to interrupt the flow of the story with the result that it was hard to maintain continuity in either plot. The actual storyline, that there are shadowy people in the Police force and elsewhere who will "eliminate" the undesirable elements in society, is a very interesting premise but I felt it wasn't developed adequately. My impression of this novel is that this is an author who has a very interesting idea but he needs to work a little bit harder to develop it.
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